Join to apply for the Head of Data Science role at Compass Group UK & Ireland
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Join to apply for the Head of Data Science role at Compass Group UK & Ireland
Location: Birmingham or "Hybrid / Flexible"
Salary: Competitive + Bonus + Benefits
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Lead the future of AI and data-driven innovation.
We’re looking for a visionary and hands-on Head of Data Science to define and execute our enterprise-wide data science strategy. You’ll drive the adoption of Generative AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics across all business sectors, building the capabilities, team, and infrastructure to unlock high-impact, scalable innovation.
What You’ll Be DoingShape Strategy & Lead Innovation
* Define and deliver the data science vision, spanning GenAI, ML, and advanced analytics.
* Establish an AI Centre of Excellence to embed a data-first culture across the business.
* Be the senior voice on AI in leadership forums — shaping how data science drives strategic value.
Build GenAI & ML Solutions
* Deliver enterprise-scale GenAI apps (e.g. virtual assistants, copilots, RAG systems).
* Develop robust LLMOps pipelines for scalable AI deployment and governance.
* Lead classical ML initiatives alongside engineering teams — from training to monitoring.
* Stay ahead of emerging trends in AI/ML to inform technology adoption.
Enable Data-Driven Decision Making
* Build tooling and frameworks for experimentation, A/B testing, and predictive modelling.
* Define ethical and governance standards for responsible AI use.
Lead & Scale the Team
* Build and mentor a high-performing data science function embedded in product and business teams.
* Define team structure, tooling, and hiring roadmap to scale capability and impact.
* Act as a trusted advisor to commercial, product, finance, and marketing leaders.
Your ProfileYou’ll Bring:
* Proven experience leading enterprise data science teams in complex or product-led environments.
* A track record of delivering GenAI solutions using LLMs, prompt engineering, and RAG architectures.
* Deep understanding of experimentation, statistical modelling, and advanced analytics.
* Hands-on experience with MLOps practices, cloud environments (AWS or Azure), and classical ML model deployment.
* Proficiency in Python, SQL, and modern data science tools/platforms.
* Strong stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to simplify complex insights into strategic recommendations.
Bonus Points For:
* Experience with AWS AI tools (SageMaker, Bedrock, Lambda).
* Familiarity with low/no-code platforms.
* Knowledge of ethical AI frameworks and responsible innovation practices.
What Success Looks Like
* Scalable, high-impact data science solutions delivering measurable business value.
* Widespread adoption of AI/ML and self-serve analytics across teams.
* A strong, respected AI Centre of Excellence at the heart of business decision-making.
* A world-class, continuously evolving data science team.
* Governance frameworks that ensure AI is safe, secure, and ethical.
Why Join Us?
This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of AI and analytics in a fast-moving corporate environment. You’ll have the autonomy, executive backing, and resources to innovate at scale — building something transformative and lasting. You'll also receive a competitive salary with bonus/pension/private healthcare.
Ready to lead the next generation of data-driven innovation?
Apply now to take the reins of our AI and data science strategy.
Seniority level
* Seniority level
Executive
Employment type
* Employment type
Full-time
Job function
* Job function
Engineering and Information Technology
* Industries
Food and Beverage Services
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