Head of Data Science – Research & Development

Head of Data Science & Research
Location: Manchester (2 days a week in City Centre, flexible remote)

A disruptive financial services SaaS company based in Manchester, leading the industry with cutting-edge technology and a passionate focus on innovation are hiring for a brand new role. You’d be working closely with their well-established Data and Analytics department which spans data science, engineering, and analytics, serving as the engine of their strategic advantage.

As they embark on an exciting new phase of growth, they are establishing a dedicated Research and Data Science department to fuel their innovation pipeline.

As the Head of Data Science & Research you will lead this function, designing and executing the research strategy that will shape their future offerings.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Roadmapping: Lead the design, architecture, and development of the research and data science function, including infrastructure, tools, and methodologies.
Team Leadership: Build, develop, and mentor a high-performing team of data scientists and data engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
Research Leadership: Define the research agenda, focusing on experimental and hypothesis-driven approaches, developing rigorous methodologies to test commercial hypotheses in simulation environments, and rolling out proof-of-concept solutions.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with the CTO, data leaders, and business stakeholders to align research efforts with business objectives and ensure commercial impact.
Innovation & Experimentation: Drive the application of advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI to solve complex industry problems, delivering tangible value.
Project Execution: Oversee the end-to-end delivery of research initiatives from concept to implementation.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

Proven experience in leading research-oriented data science teams within a commercial setting.
Demonstrable success in formulating hypotheses, developing testing frameworks, and validating ideas through simulations or pilot projects.
Strong background in designing scalable data architectures, data pipelines, and experimentation environments.
Excellent leadership skills with a track record of hiring, developing, and inspiring talented data teams.
Strategic thinker with the ability to balance innovative research with business deliverables.
Strong collaboration skills, capable of working closely with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

This is a unique opportunity in the North. Get in touch now to discuss!

Mirai believes in the power of diversity and the importance of an inclusive culture. It welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds, understanding that a range of perspectives strengthens both its team and its partners’ teams. This is just one of the ways they’re taking positive action to shape a collaborative and diverse future in the workplace.