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- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of impactful ML & AI solutions.
- Company: Join Forge Holiday Group, the team behind popular holiday brands.
- Benefits: Enjoy a bonus scheme, 33 days holiday, and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Shape the future of data science while promoting ethical AI in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Extensive ML/AI experience, strong Python skills, and excellent communication required.
- Other info: We value diverse perspectives and support applicants throughout the process.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Join Forge Holiday Group — the team behind Sykes Holiday Cottages, Forest Holidays, UKcaravans4hire, and Bachcare (NZ). We are looking for a Principal Data Scientist to lead and shape the future of data science across our brands. This is a high-impact, high-visibility role for someone ready to drive machine learning at scale within a flexible hybrid model (minimum 2 days a week in our Chester HQ).
What you’ll do:
- Lead design, development, and delivery of production-grade ML & AI solutions
- Own our most complex, business-critical data science initiatives
- Drive system-level thinking—architecture, data integration, model lifecycle
- Champion MLOps practices: CI/CD, testing, monitoring, governance
- Translate business strategy into technical solutions that deliver impact
- Partner with Engineering, Product, and Analytics to align on goals and execution
- Mentor the data science team, guiding both technical and professional growth
- Champion ethical AI, explainability, and responsible innovation
What you bring:
- Extensive experience delivering ML/AI solutions in production
- Strong grasp of modern ML techniques (transformers, transfer learning, etc.)
- Hands-on expertise with Python (e.g. Scikit-learn, PyTorch/TensorFlow) & SQL
- Deep understanding of model validation, monitoring, and retraining strategies
- Proven track record of leading cross-functional technical direction
- Familiarity with CI/CD, MLOps tools, and cloud ML (e.g. SageMaker, GCP, Azure)
- Excellent communication skills and commercial awareness
Nice to have:
- Experience influencing data science strategy at org-wide level
- Background in eCommerce or consumer analytics
- Contributions to open source, publications, or industry communities
- MSc or PhD in a quantitative field (e.g. statistics, computer science, maths)
What’s in it for you?
- Bonus scheme (up to 10%), 33 days holiday & your birthday off
- BCorp certified, wellbeing perks & volunteering days
- Enhanced parental leave + hybrid working
- Work with modern tools & shape strategic AI use across the business
- Training, development, gym access & supportive leadership
- Exclusive discounts on stays across our brands
We believe in Being One Team, Owning It, Communicating Honestly, and Learning, Growing, Innovating together. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds—your unique perspective matters here. Need support during the application process? Just let us know. Ready to lead the future of data science? Click 'apply' to see the full job description and more info.
Principal Data Scientist employer: Forge Holiday Group
Contact Detail:
Forge Holiday Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Data Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific ML techniques mentioned in the job description, such as transformers and transfer learning. Being able to discuss these concepts confidently during your interview will demonstrate your expertise and alignment with the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare examples of your past work that showcase your experience in leading cross-functional teams and delivering ML/AI solutions. Highlighting your leadership skills and ability to drive projects will be crucial in this high-impact role.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Forge Holiday Group and their brands to understand their business model and data needs. Tailoring your conversation to how you can specifically contribute to their goals will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of MLOps practices and tools during discussions. Being able to articulate how you would implement CI/CD, testing, and monitoring in a production environment will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Data Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your extensive experience in delivering ML/AI solutions. Focus on specific projects where you've used modern ML techniques and tools like Python, SQL, and MLOps practices.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for data science and how your background aligns with the role. Mention your leadership experience and how you can mentor the data science team while driving ethical AI practices.
Showcase Relevant Projects: Include examples of complex data science initiatives you've led. Discuss your approach to system-level thinking, architecture, and model lifecycle management to demonstrate your fit for the role.
Highlight Communication Skills: Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, provide examples of how you've effectively collaborated with cross-functional teams. This will show your ability to partner with Engineering, Product, and Analytics.
How to prepare for a job interview at Forge Holiday Group
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Principal Data Scientist, you'll need to demonstrate your extensive experience with ML/AI solutions. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've applied modern ML techniques, and don't shy away from diving into the technical details of your work with Python and SQL.
✨Emphasise Leadership and Mentorship
This role involves guiding a team, so highlight your experience in mentoring others. Share examples of how you've supported the professional growth of your colleagues and led cross-functional teams to achieve common goals.
✨Discuss Your Approach to Ethical AI
Forge Holiday Group values ethical AI practices. Be ready to talk about how you champion explainability and responsible innovation in your projects. This will show that you align with their commitment to ethical standards in data science.
✨Prepare for System-Level Thinking Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to think about architecture, data integration, and model lifecycle management. Prepare to discuss how you've approached these aspects in previous roles, as this is crucial for driving impactful data science initiatives.
