Principal Data Scientist (FTC - 24 months)

About the role

Do you want to play a role in making London safer through the generation and effective use of data science and analysis? We’re recruiting multiple roles to create a new Data Science team within the MOPAC Evidence & Insight function.

The Mayor’s Office for Policing And Crime (MOPAC) is the organisation through which the Mayor of London exercises his role as the Police and Crime Commissioner for London and is led by the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime. MOPAC undertakes a broad range of statutory duties and works closely with the Mayor of London, Deputy Mayor and Metropolitan Police Service to deliver the priorities that will create safer London communities. 

Working within MOPAC, Evidence & Insight is the dedicated in-house analytics team consisting of experienced analysts and researchers conducting performance analytics, social research and public opinion surveys, all for the purpose of best supporting MOPAC and ensuring evidence is at the centre of policy to make London safer. Read more about the team here . 

We are assembling a Data Science team at MOPAC and seeking talented individuals to fill multiple roles. This is an exciting opportunity to play a leading role in a dynamic team dedicated to leveraging data science to drive actionable insights and support MOPAC in achieving its statutory aims.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Data Scientist to join our team at MOPAC. As the Principal Data Scientist, you will play a critical role in driving data-driven insights and decision-making to address crime, criminal justice, and policing challenges in London. You will lead a team of Data Scientists and spearhead the development and execution of sophisticated analytical projects, providing strategic leadership in formulating MOPAC's Data Science strategy and offering expert guidance in specialised technical areas to drive innovation and ensure alignment with MOPAC’s overall objectives.

Selected responsibilities would include: 

Playing a role in leading and developing the data science team within MOPAC.

Expertise in data science techniques and capabilities (i.e., data mining, visualisation, predictive analysis, statistics, time series, large language models, geospatial analytics).

Experience leading or mentoring a team of data analysts or scientists Graduate and/or professional qualification in data science, mathematics, statistics, 
economics, social science or related area, or an appropriate business management subject
or an ability to demonstrate the equivalent level of knowledge

Ensuring data science is a key aspect within MOPAC decision making in terms of oversight of the MPS, but also other areas where appropriate.

Attending, contributing to and presenting at MOPAC / MPS corporate (and other public scrutiny) boards and similar Policy meetings where required. 

In depth knowledge of Data Science and practical experience of how data science techniques can be used (i.e. data mining, visualisation, predictive analysis, statistics, time series, large language models, geospatial analytics). Proficiency in coding with SQL, DAX, M, Python or R, with the ability to manipulate and analyse data efficiently

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and join a team that's making a real difference improving the lives of Londoners, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

Want to find out what it’s like to work with MOPAC?

You can find out more about MOPAC by visiting our 

Applying for the Role 

Candidates wishing to apply must upload their CV accordingly, complete their personal profile and answer the supporting questions. Please ensure your answers clearly address the essential criteria and competency framework outlined in the attached job description. 

MOPAC operates a blind recruitment process; therefore, please do not write any identifiable information (such as your name, pronouns or any personal information) within your supporting question answers or introductory statement.

Political Restriction 

Political Restriction: under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 (as amended by the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011), all MOPAC staff members will be politically restricted without the right to apply for an exemption. 

Security Vetting Clearance 

The successful candidates will be expected to undergo the necessary security vetting, which may take around eight weeks to complete. Applicants must possess the legal right to work in the UK and have resided in the UK continuously for at least the last three years. 

Reward and Benefits 

In addition to an excellent salary and civil service pension with 28.97% employer contribution, we offer an attractive range of benefits including 32.5 days’ annual leave, interest free season ticket loan and flexible working arrangements.

Where are we based? 

We have moved to a hybrid working model with office hubs at Union Street (near London Bridge) and Newlands Park (postcode SE26). On average, staff will work 1-2 days a week from an Office Hub, which may differ depending on the role requirements.

Got a query on the recruitment process? 

We are a disability-confident employer. MOPAC guarantees an interview to any applicant that declares that they have a disability, providing they meet the minimum standards for the job role. These standards are defined in the job description and will often be listed as essential or desirable skills.

London's diversity is its biggest asset, and we strive to ensure our workforce reflects London's diversity at all levels. We welcome applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability.