Head of Data Science

We are seeking a highly skilled Head of Data Science to lead our growing team of data scientists and analysts. This is a pivotal role, shaping how we use advanced analytics, predictive modelling and data-driven insight to inform decision-making across the SRA. You will set the strategic direction for the team, ensuring that their work underpins our regulatory priorities and helps us deliver meaningful impact in the legal services sector.

• Work in a rapidly evolving sector, offering an exciting opportunity to showcase and implement innovative ideas
• Support the regulation of the legal profession, protecting and promoting the public interest, and help shape and implement our responses to new challenges
• Showcase your technical, and leadership skills - leading a dedicated team of data scientists and data analysts

As Head of Data Science, you will be responsible for planning and delivering the team\'s contribution to our business plan and strategic priorities. You will provide expert technical leadership, guiding the design and application of advanced statistical and machine learning techniques, while ensuring outputs are of the highest quality and relevance. A key part of your role will be to translate complex analysis into accessible insights that support evidence-led regulatory decisions. Collaboration will be central to the role. You will work closely with colleagues across the organisation and with external stakeholders, building strong partnerships to maximise the impact of our analytical work. You will play an important role in identifying opportunities where data science can add value, helping to manage risk, and producing clear, persuasive outputs that inform decisions at the highest level. You will also focus on developing and enhancing the capability of the team. By providing coaching, mentoring and technical leadership, you will create an environment where colleagues are supported to grow, encouraged to innovate, and empowered to deliver their best work. You will foster a culture of inclusivity, responsiveness and high performance, ensuring the team continues to deliver against strategic priorities.

• Degree or equivalent experience in statistics, social science, physics or other relevant discipline, coupled with research experience or post-graduate qualification in quantitative discipline
• Expert use of standard statistical tools e.g. R/Python and relevant associated libraries
• Deep expertise in building and maintaining AI and machine learning models, including use of deep learning, natural language processing, and LLMs
• Ability to produce reasoned, defensible analysis that can be relied upon to determine regulatory action, and the allocation of regulatory resources
• Demonstrable leadership capabilities, including technical guidance of skilled professionals and driving performance development