Principle Data Scientist

Contract Principal Data Scientist (Senior Data Scientist) The Opportunity

We're looking for a Principal Data Scientist (Senior Data Scientist level) to lead the development of advanced analytics, AI models, and data-driven solutions that deliver real organisational impact.

This role sits at the intersection of data science, AI, and business strategy, combining technical expertise with leadership to shape high-value initiatives and unlock insights from complex data.

What You'll Be Doing

• Build strong relationships with stakeholders to identify opportunities where data science and AI can deliver value
• Design, develop and deploy advanced analytics, machine learning models, and data products
• Lead and contribute to high-impact data science projects across the organisation
• Translate complex analysis into clear, actionable insights and recommendations
• Work closely with data engineers to ensure robust, scalable data pipelines and solutions
• Provide technical leadership, setting standards and coaching other data scientists
• Drive innovation and champion the use of AI and advanced analytics
• Contribute to best practice in data science, governance, and ethical use of data

Tech & Tools

You'll typically work with:

• Python and advanced statistical tools
• Machine Learning and AI frameworks
• Cloud-based data platforms (e.g. Azure ecosystems)
• Data visualisation and reporting tools
• Data engineering and transformation pipelines

What We're Looking ForEssential:

• Extensive experience designing and delivering data science and AI solutions in real-world environments
• Strong expertise in statistical analysis, machine learning, and advanced analytics techniques
• Proven ability to write and optimise complex code
• Experience working closely with data engineers and multidisciplinary teams
• Demonstrable contribution to building data science capability and best practice
• Ability to communicate complex findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences

Desirable:

• Experience working in agile, iterative delivery environments
• Understanding of user research and user needs in product development

What Makes This Role Stand Out

• Opportunity to lead and shape AI and data science strategy
• Combination of hands-on delivery and technical leadership
• Focus on delivering real-world impact through data
• Work across a variety of complex, high-value problem spaces

Key Skills

• Advanced statistical analysis and modelling
• Data engineering collaboration and data lifecycle understanding
• Storytelling with data and visualisation
• Data ethics, privacy, and governance awareness
• Stakeholder engagement and influencing
• Product thinking and delivery

What You'll Deliver

• High-quality AI models and analytical solutions
• Insightful dashboards, reports, and visualisations
• Scalable and reusable data science products
• Established standards, practices, and capability improvements
• Thought leadership in data science and AI innovation

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates