Lead Data Scientist (AI Specialism) London

About Elsewhen:

Elsewhen, a London-based consultancy, designs and builds technology solutions for clients like Spotify, Google, Inmarsat, and Zego. Over the past decade, we have built a workplace prioritising impact, drive, and friendliness. We value outcomes over hours and agility over rigid processes.

Work Environment:

• Remote-first setup: Fully remote work with the option to use a WeWork membership for those who prefer occasional office access.

• Join our team:

Role:

As a Lead Data Scientist, you will be the technical authority for machine learning and data science within our consultancy, working closely with Product Leadership and our diverse client base to deliver transformative AI-driven solutions. You will lead the development and implementation of cutting-edge Generative AI and Large Language Model applications whilst collaborating with cross-functional teams including product designers, engineers, and product managers. This senior role requires hands-on delivery combined with strategic thinking to drive data-driven decision-making and deliver measurable business outcomes for our clients.

Responsibilities:

• Lead AI/ML Project Delivery: Take ownership of complex machine learning projects from conception to deployment, with a strong emphasis on practical applications and demonstrable outcomes.

• Strategic Product Development: Collaborate closely with Product Leadership and client stakeholders to identify, conceptualise, and build data science-driven product improvements that align with strategic business goals.

• Generative AI & LLM Implementation: Develop, fine-tune, and deploy advanced Large Language Models and Generative AI solutions, managing the computational challenges and optimisation techniques required for enterprise-scale applications.

• Advanced RAG Systems: Design and implement sophisticated Retrieval-Augmented Generation systems, combining LLMs with external knowledge bases to enhance information retrieval and improve response accuracy across diverse client domains.

• Technical Authority & Mentorship: Act as the go-to technical resource for machine learning and data science within Elsewhen, challenging ideas to ensure feasibility and mentoring junior team members as the practice grows.

• Commercial Innovation: Display high commercial acumen and product insight to generate new AI-driven ideas that create competitive advantages for our clients and expand our consultancy\’s service offerings.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Cultivate strong relationships with Data Engineering, Software Development, and Architecture teams to ensure seamless integration of ML solutions into broader product ecosystems.

• Executive Communication: Communicate complex findings, project statuses, and strategic recommendations clearly to senior leadership across client organisations.

• Data Science Excellence: Analyse large and complex data sets to identify patterns, trends, and insights that guide product development strategies, whilst designing and implementing data experiments and A/B testing frameworks.

Requirements:

• Senior Experience: Minimum 5+ years in Machine Learning and Data Science, with a proven track record of delivering applied machine learning projects in a consultancy, product, or similar commercial environment.

• Generative AI Expertise: Demonstrated experience in developing, fine-tuning, and deploying Large Language Models, with deep understanding of model architectures, optimisation techniques, and computational challenges.

• RAG Implementation: Proven expertise in implementing Retrieval-Augmented Generation systems, with strong understanding of RAG workflows, including indexing, retrieval, and integration with language models.

• Technical Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in Python and experience with data manipulation and analysis libraries (Pandas, NumPy, SciPy), along with strong knowledge of machine learning algorithms, statistical modelling, and data mining techniques.

• Commercial Acumen: Deep understanding of product dynamics, market needs, and commercial considerations essential for conceptualising and executing impactful data-driven solutions.

• Leadership & Initiative: Proactive \”do-er\” mentality with proven ability to take initiative, drive projects forward independently, and lead technical decisions without constant direction.

• Communication Excellence: Exceptional communication and presentation skills with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences, including non-technical stakeholders and senior leadership.

• Educational Background: Degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, AI/ML, or related field.

Benefits:

• Private Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for both physical and mental health.

• Flexible and Remote-First Work Environment: Choose how and where you work, with the option for weekly team meet-ups in central London.

• Generous Leave Policy: 27 days of holiday plus bank holidays, along with enhanced paternity (6 weeks) and maternity leave (16 weeks) or shared parental pay.

• Learning and Development: Individual annual budget of £2,000 for learning and development, with dedicated learning days.

• Feel Better Fund: £500 to help set up your remote office.

• Social Events: Monthly and quarterly team events, an annual team trip, and half-yearly social events.

• Gym Membership Contribution: Support for maintaining your physical health.

• Additional Perks: Includes Amazon Prime, cinema perks, and more.

• Pension Contribution: Enhanced employer pension contribution of 6%.

• Bonus Opportunities: Potential to receive a discretionary (non-contractual) bonus based on business and personal achievements.

Our Commitment to Diversity:

Diverse thoughts, backgrounds, and perspectives create stronger teams and better technology. We welcome everyone, regardless of culture, appearance, or perspective, fostering individuality. We empower our team to challenge norms, grow ideas, and produce their best work.