Data Scientist

As a Data Scientist at The FA, you'll be central to our data transformation, working across areas such as grassroots initiatives, elite performance, fan engagement, and operations. From day one, you'll lead the development and deployment of data science solutions. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to build scalable systems, maintain robust data pipelines, and integrate machine learning models into real-world applications that make a measurable impact.

• Apply machine learning and predictive modelling to optimise player development, grassroots participation, and tournament planning
• Perform clustering and statistical analysis on historical performance data to identify tactical and developmental insights
• Develop computer vision models (e.g. YOLO, TensorFlow, PyTorch) for match analysis, crowd monitoring, and event operations
• Design and maintain robust data pipelines for structured and unstructured data using Microsoft Fabric and Azure Synapse
• Build and deploy scalable machine learning models to solve real-world challenges
• Create dashboards and data visualisations using Power BI, matplotlib, and Plotly
• Translate complex analytical findings into clear, actionable recommendations for both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Collaborate with product managers, data engineers, and solution architects to align analytics with business goals
• Support MLOps and FinOps practices for live services and resource planning
• Executes additional tasks as required to meet The FA's changing priorities
• Comply with all company policies and procedures to ensure that the highest standards of health, safety, and well-being can be maintained
• As part of The FA's commitment to ensuring a safe environment for everyone in football, every employee will be required to complete a DBS check. The level of the check required will be based on the activity of the specific job role and in line with legislation and government guidance.

• Python and R
• Microsoft Fabric, Azure Synapse, SQL
• Power BI, matplotlib, Plotly
• Azure (RBAC, AAD, Blob Storage); experience with AWS or GCP is also valued
• Strong foundation in statistics, modelling, and data wrangling
• Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch
• Soft Skills: Ability to translate business problems into analytical solutions
• Soft Skills: Confident communicator capable of presenting insights to non-technical stakeholders
• Soft Skills: Effective team player who works well in cross-functional environments
• Soft Skills: Analytical thinker with a proactive and solutions-oriented mindset

• We are committed to ensuring everyone can flourish in their roles, with office spaces under Wembley Arch and access to the Elite Performance Centre at St. George's Park
• Competitive salary and opportunities for development and growth
• Access to event day tickets at Wembley Stadium and regular internal events
• Free nutritious lunches at Wembley Stadium and St. George's Park
• Free private medical cover
• Contributory pension scheme
• Additional 'Thank You' days, volunteering days, and 25 days annual leave (based on a full-time, permanent contract)
• Hybrid working model with location-based flexibility
• Further information about working at The FA is available on the FA Careers page

Currently, we are working within a hybrid model whereby the expectation is to work from your contractual location for part of the week, and as required by the team. The remaining days can be worked remotely. The contractual location of this role is listed on the FA Careers page. The Football Association actively promotes inclusion and diversity and is an equal opportunities employer. If you have any requirements regarding the recruitment or interview process, please mention this during your application.