Principal Data Scientist

Principal Data Scientist

Location: London (Hybrid)

Salary: 80-100k + benefits

One of our clients are looking for aPrincipal Data Scientistwho thrives at the intersection of advanced analytics and commercial strategy. This is a high-impact, client-facing leadership role where you’ll apply your deep technical expertise to drive growth, uncover new opportunities, and deliver transformative AI and data science solutions.

The Opportunity

As a senior leader within the team, you’ll play a central role in shaping their data science offerings and influencing business outcomes—both internally and for their clients. You’ll lead the development and delivery of next-gen solutions, guide commercial strategies, and act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Commercial Strategy & Growth

• Develop and lead go-to-market strategies for AI and data science services.
• Identify and pursue high-value commercial opportunities and partnerships.
• Drive business development and client acquisition initiatives.

Client Engagement & Advisory

• Partner with C-suite and senior stakeholders to translate data insights into actionable business strategies.
• Lead proposal development, pitch presentations, and contract negotiations.
• Ensure delivery of impactful, revenue-generating analytics solutions.

Data Science & AI Innovation

• Design and deploy machine learning models and advanced analytics that optimise performance, customer engagement, and profitability.
• Support strategic decision-making through data-driven insights and predictive modelling.

Team Leadership & Capability Building

• Lead cross-functional teams of data scientists, engineers, and business experts.
• Foster a results-oriented, commercially-focused team culture.
• Collaborate across departments to align data initiatives with business priorities.

Performance & ROI Measurement

• Define success metrics and frameworks for tracking the commercial impact of data science initiatives.
• Build business cases to support investments and ensure measurable outcomes.

Qualifications & Experience

• 8+ years in data science, analytics, or AI, with at least 3 years in a senior commercial or consulting role.
• Proficiency in tools and platforms such as Python, SQL, Vector stores & graphs, Power BI, Looker, and modern analytics stacks.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a quantitative field (e.g. Data Science, Statistics, Economics). MBA or business qualifications are a plus.
• Strong track record in generating revenue and leading commercial data science initiatives.
• Proven experience working with senior stakeholders and translating complex technical concepts into business value.
• Ability to lead high-performing teams and drive cross-functional collaboration with clear, outcome-oriented focus.
• Demonstrated success delivering high-impact projects that have directly contributed to revenue growth, customer acquisition, or operational efficiency.
• Deep understanding of commercial business models and market dynamics.