Mirai Talent
Head of Data Science
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Head of Data Science
Head of Data Science Public sector, Hybrid (London or Manchester)
About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of a mission-driven organisation that champions the voice of its users. As Head of Data Science, you’ll lead a multidisciplinary team to deliver a cutting-edge data capability that directly improves real-world outcomes for the people they serve.
At this pivotal time for the organisation, data will be at the core of its transformation. This hands-on role demands statistical analysis, machine learning, and business acumen to solve complex challenges and drive measurable impact—not for profit alone, but to empower the organisation in its advocacy work.
You’ll oversee core data services, collaborating with the Insight team to integrate operational data, external datasets, and user feedback into evidence-based practice. Operating in a matrix environment, you’ll align data science and emerging technologies—such as AI—tightly with the organisation’s people-first objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Team Leadership & Strategic Direction
- Lead a small, multidisciplinary team covering data ingestion, quality, reporting, dashboards, analysis, and future data science innovation
- Own and manage the data service roadmap, prioritising new data sources and reporting in partnership with stakeholders
- Ensure data governance, ethics, and compliance adhere to best practices
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Data & Analytical Expertise
- Present a trusted view of organisational performance to support advocacy and reporting
- Analyse large, complex datasets to uncover trends, patterns, and improvement opportunities
- Develop, test, and deploy predictive and statistical models as data maturity grows
- Apply machine learning and emerging AI techniques to address real-world problems
- Collaborate with data engineers to ensure high-quality, accessible data
- Support experimentation and A/B testing to inform strategic decisions
Communication & Translation
- Clearly communicate insights through visualisations, reports, and presentations
- Work across teams to align data science efforts with broader organisational goals
Requirements & Fit
Essential
- Proven track record leading or managing data, analytics, or reporting services, including delivery, governance, and continuous improvement
- Hands-on leading a multidisciplinary data team (engineering, analysis, reporting, and data science)
- Strong data science background or equivalent analytical expertise, including statistics, probability, and modelling
- Proficiency in:
- Python/R for data analysis
- SQL for querying large datasets
- Machine learning frameworks: scikit-learn, TensorFlow, or PyTorch
- Experience with big data platforms and cloud technologies
- Familiarity with visualisation tools like Tableau or Power BI
- Comfort navigating matrix environments, with skills to build collaborations and clarify priorities
- Mission-driven mindset: Passionate about applying data for public benefit, not just technical challenges
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Desirable
- Experience with public sector or operational performance datasets
- Familiarity with ethical AI and privacy-preserving technologies
Package & Benefit
- Salary: £75,000 (base) + allowance of up to £7,000, subject to experience
- Leave: 30 days annual leave + bank holidays
- Work Arrangement: Hybrid (minimum 2 days per week in office)
- Additional benefits:
- Access to the Civil Service Pension Scheme
- Alpha Employee Assistance Programme
Location: London, Manchester
About Us
We prioritise diversity and inclusion, recognising that a wide range of perspectives strengthens our work. Our team tackles real challenges with the ambition to shape a more collaborative and equitable future.
This is an opportunity for a data science leader to build foundational structures, drive meaningful impact, and combine technical excellence with a social mission. Does this resonate with you? We’d love to hear your story.
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