AI Tech Lead

Next 15 is a data and technology-led growth consultancy that employs nearly 5,000 people across 38 offices in 15 countries. Within our family of 24 consultancies and marketing businesses (our brands), we focus on solving our clients' growth problems. Role overview We are looking for a Tech Lead with a passion for AI and deep technical expertise to join our Next 15 Labs team in London. You'll lead an internal team of AI engineers and data scientists, alongside third-party developers to drive technical excellence in designing and developing innovative AI-based solutions to our brands’ core strategic challenges. Reporting to our Head of Next 15 Labs you will bring your technical experience and creativity to help design, test and prototype AI solutions that enhance efficiency, increase productivity, and create new avenues for growth across Next 15. Our team comprises passionate and forward-thinking people. We believe in the potential of AI and how it can help us unlock new efficiencies, productivity and innovation for our brands and clients. Collaboration is at the heart of our team’s success and we value everyone’s unique perspective and contribution and are proud to foster a close-knit and flexible remote hybrid environment. As an AI Tech Lead at Next 15, you will: Lead and provide technical guidance to our team of engineers, driving AI-focused projects to successful outcomes Focus on rapid experimentation and prototyping, tackling the most challenging aspects of AI problems with a hands-on approach to coding, debugging, and problem-solving Oversee the entire lifecycle of AI solution development, from initial ideation and prototyping to potential production implementation Keep abreast of the latest AI technologies and trends, proposing and implementing innovative solutions to maintain our position at the forefront of AI development Work with diverse teams across the Next 15 group to define AI project scopes, technical requirements, solution designs, and architectures Serve as a go-to expert on AI within the Next 15 group, providing technical advice and guidance on AI development and best practices You will bring: A degree in computer science, engineering, AI or an IT-related subject Proven leadership experience within a technical development team, particularly in AI projects Proficiency in key programming languages relevant to AI, such as Python, R, or Java Deep expertise in AI algorithms, Generative AI, machine learning, natural language processing, and data analysis Hands-on experience with AI/ML frameworks and libraries such as TensorFlow and PyTorch Knowledge of advanced techniques such as Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and fine-tuning models Experience with cloud platforms like AWS or Azure and their AI-related services A track record of successfully resolving complex AI-specific technical challenges Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a relentless drive for innovation and excellence in technology Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented environment And in return, Next 15 offers: Excellent salary 6% matched pension contribution 30 days annual leave Green Car scheme that saves you up to 40% on the cost of driving an electric car with a wide variety of cars to choose from Group Life insurance Flexible working Career progression Open and collaborative workplace culture Why Us? At Next 15, our people are our biggest investment and greatest asset. Whether it's creativity or analytical insight, we always look for people with a genuine passion for what they do, a desire to succeed and always endeavour to find new ways of working with clients. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workforce. We uphold and celebrate our differences. We do not discriminate. Regardless of your colour, race, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, social background, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, or veteran status, you are welcome to join us. Just bring your whole self.