At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and implement cutting-edge statistical and machine learning models for commercial lending.
- Company: Join Funding Circle, a fintech leader supporting UK small businesses.
- Benefits: Flexible benefits, health coverage, financial coaching, and a dedicated learning allowance.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with opportunities for mentorship and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the economy while working in a dynamic, supportive team.
- Qualifications: Advanced degree in a quantitative field and expertise in Python and SQL.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
We’re on a mission to back the UK’s small businesses like no one else. Small businesses are the backbone of the economy, and we’re here to help them win. We’ve built a platform that uses clever data to get them the funding they need in minutes, not weeks. At Funding Circle, we have the restless energy of a fintech start‑up with the stability of a public company. It’s a unique mix that gives Circlers the autonomy to take ownership and the scale to make an impact that truly counts. We’re a high‑performing team that chooses to lift each other up. We challenge, we champion, and we have each other’s backs - because we know that when we stand together, we move faster and build better. The impact is real: Last year alone, the businesses on our platform generated £7.2bn for the UK economy. Come and join a mission that matters.
Location and Compensation
- Location: London (Hybrid). Office days: 3 days in the office.
- Salary: Competitive Salary + Benefits.
Role
We are looking for a Senior (Lead) Data Scientist to join us as we continue to evolve and build our next generation of models at Funding Circle. You will play a key role in developing, implementing and monitoring these models and drive significant value for the business. As part of the Decision Science team, you will create cutting edge statistical and machine learning models and collaborate with data engineers, analysts, and business stakeholders. As well as improving on our previous generation models, we are expanding our borrower products so you will have the opportunity to develop completely new models.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop statistical and machine learning models for commercial lending products.
- Have a clear and relentless focus on delivering business results and be comfortable challenging the status quo.
- Provide technical mentorship and guidance to junior team members during the model development lifecycle.
- Mentor the team on best practices for risk mitigation.
- Oversee the experimentation framework for model optimisations.
- Conduct peer reviews of code and methodologies to ensure high-quality, scalable outputs.
What we’re looking for
- Passionate about Funding Circle’s values and mission to support businesses.
- Advanced Education: A Bachelors, Masters or PhD in a quantitative field or STEM related subject (Mathematics, Finance, Economics, Physics, Engineering…).
- Proven Expertise: Proven in problem‑solving using logical reasoning and analytical methods and previous experience in Machine Learning and model building.
- Technical Proficiency: Expert-level knowledge of Python and SQL.
- Able to take ownership of redesigning departmental workflows, using AI to automate complex tasks and drive operational efficiency.
- Competently able to identify high‑impact AI use cases and implement advanced prompting techniques to solve multi‑layered business challenges.
We’re building a place where everyone truly feels they belong. Even if your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every requirement, we'd still love to hear from you.
Benefits
- Flexibility: We provide a benefit allowance you can tailor to your own life and family.
- Health: This includes private medical and dental, health assessments, and access to a digital GP.
- Wealth: We offer life assurance, share schemes, and financial coaching.
- Development: You get a dedicated annual learning allowance to help you level up.
- Lifestyle: We have electric car and cycle‑to‑work schemes, plus season ticket loans. We also have award‑winning parental leave policies. We're here to support you through the big life moments, from fertility treatments to new additions to the family.
Ready to join a mission that matters? We’d love to chat!
Senior Data Scientist employer: Funding Circle UK
At Funding Circle, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions the growth of our employees while making a tangible impact on the UK economy. Our vibrant London office fosters a collaborative and high-performing culture, where you can take ownership of your work and benefit from tailored development opportunities, flexible benefits, and comprehensive health support. Join us in our mission to empower small businesses and be part of a team that truly values your contributions and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Data Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Funding Circle on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills. Since you're applying for a Senior Data Scientist role, be ready to discuss your experience with machine learning models and Python. We want to see how you think and solve problems!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for small businesses! Funding Circle is all about helping them thrive, so share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to supporting the economy and driving impactful results.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our mission to make a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Data Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Funding Circle's mission shine through. We want to see how much you care about supporting small businesses and making a real impact in the UK economy.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in data science, especially in machine learning and model building. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and technical proficiency.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and focus on what makes you a great fit for the Senior Data Scientist role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to join our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Funding Circle UK
✨Know Your Data Inside Out
As a Senior Data Scientist, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in statistical and machine learning models. Brush up on your past projects and be ready to discuss the methodologies you used, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. This shows not only your technical skills but also your problem-solving abilities.
✨Align with the Mission
Funding Circle is all about supporting small businesses. Make sure you understand their mission and values. Be prepared to explain how your work can contribute to this goal. Showing that you’re passionate about their mission will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face some tough technical questions during your interview. Brush up on Python and SQL, as well as any relevant machine learning techniques. Practising coding problems or model-building scenarios can help you feel more confident and ready to tackle these questions head-on.
✨Showcase Your Mentorship Skills
Since the role involves mentoring junior team members, be ready to discuss your experience in guiding others. Share examples of how you've helped colleagues improve their skills or navigate complex projects. This will highlight your leadership qualities and your ability to lift others up, which aligns perfectly with Funding Circle's team culture.
