At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data science projects and develop innovative AI tools for government use.
- Company: Join a friendly, ambitious team at NISTA, shaping the future of UK government delivery.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, generous leave, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for innovation and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on major government projects while growing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in Python, cloud platforms like AWS, and leading data science initiatives.
The predicted salary is between 57670 - 67500 £ per year.
Salary: London: £60,670 - £67,500 / National: £57,670 - £64,500.
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Pattern: This post is available on a full-time, part-time or job-share basis, and flexible working hours can be accommodated.
Location: London. Any applicants who are already NISTA staff can also apply to be based from their existing locations in Birmingham (23 Stephenson Street), or Leeds (2 Whitehall Quay).
About the Team
Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to join a friendly and ambitious team who are always finding new ways to drive better use of data, right in the heart of central government? The NISTA Data & Insight Team brings together data scientists, engineers, analysts and digital professionals who genuinely care about learning from each other, sharing ideas and making things happen. Together we turn rich, high-value project data into analysis, insights and tools that support people across government, from project delivery teams to senior leaders in HMT, the Cabinet Office and No10, to make decisions that shape how the UK delivers its biggest and most complex projects.
Working with the Government Major Projects Portfolio, the 10‑year Infrastructure Pipeline and other project delivery data, your work will directly influence how major programmes are planned, delivered and improved. Over the last two years, the team has undergone a significant transformation, digitising large-scale project data collection and overhauling our digital and data infrastructure. This enables us to create high-impact dashboards and analytics as well as drive the development of AI tools. It means we can develop and share quickly, resulting in rapid iterative development with our users. And we continue to evolve, improve our capability and develop our skills.
In this role, you’ll be joining a supportive, inclusive and collaborative environment, where you can grow your skills, tackle meaningful challenges and make a real impact on the future of government delivery.
About the Job
The Lead Data Scientist is a key management role within NISTA Data and Insight team. You will balance technical expertise with leadership and communication skills, to develop bespoke data science products to be used across NISTA, HM Treasury and the wider UK government. Working in close partnership with others in NISTA’s Data and Insight management team, you will help shape the direction for how we use data, generate insight and develop AI‑enabled capabilities.
In this role you will:
- Lead our Insight Workstream
- Maintain, develop and deploy a range of data science products (including Python Plotly Dash apps, Next.js apps and advanced analytical (ML and AI) tools) on our cloud-based technology stack (AWS)
- Find new opportunities to create value for the organisation and identify emerging technologies to develop new products
- Build and maintain positive relationships with a range of partners, including colleagues across multiple departments, to embed user‑centric data science products
- Work to expand and develop our advanced analytical offering for Project Delivery Function, including building and embedding advanced AI tools across government
- Provide guidance to team members on best practices in coding, analysis, and usage of data, including use of Git for version control and Data Engineering principles
- Be an excellent line manager, with the ability to motivate people to deliver and perform at their best even in challenging circumstances
- Foster a culture of experimentation and learning, working with others in the management team to drive our Innovation workstream e.g. hackathons and innovation days
- Champion the role of data, digital and analysis in supporting organisational priorities and communicating data science outputs confidently to senior leaders and ministers
About You
We are seeking people who:
- Have the ability to produce high-quality code in at least one language (e.g. Python)
- Have experience working with a cloud computing platform (e.g. AWS)
- Have experience leading data science projects to solve problems creatively.
- Have the ability to translate complex analysis into insights to communicate to non-technical audiences to achieve impact
Some of the Benefits our people love!
- 25 days annual leave (rising to 30 after 5 years), plus 8 public holidays and the King’s birthday (unless you have a legacy arrangement as an existing Civil Servant).
- Additionally, we operate flexitime systems, allowing employees to take up to an additional 2 days off each month
- Flexible working patterns (part-time, job-share, condensed hours)
- Generous parental and adoption leave packages
- Access to a generous Defined Benefit pension scheme with employer contributions of 28.97%
- Access to a cycle-to-work salary sacrifice scheme and season ticket advances
- A range of active staff networks, based around interests (e.g. analysts, music society, sports and social club) and diversity
For more information about the role and how to apply, please follow the apply link. If you need any reasonable adjustments to take part in the selection process, please tell us about this in your online application form, or speak to the recruitment team at hrrecruitment@hmtreasury.gov.uk.
Lead Data Scientist employer: HM TREASURY
NISTA is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and inclusive work culture, allowing employees to thrive in their roles while tackling meaningful challenges that impact the future of government delivery. With flexible working patterns, generous leave policies, and a commitment to employee growth through collaboration and innovation, NISTA provides a unique opportunity for data professionals to make a real difference in the heart of central government.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Data Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info about the role and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills and understanding the latest trends in data science. We want to see how you can apply your knowledge to real-world problems, so think of examples from your past work.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for data! During interviews, share your thoughts on how data can drive decision-making in government. This will demonstrate your alignment with our mission at NISTA.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows that you’re genuinely interested in the position. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be a perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Data Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Lead Data Scientist role. We want to see how you can contribute to our team, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant projects!
Show Off Your Technical Skills:Since this role requires high-quality coding and experience with cloud platforms like AWS, be sure to include specific examples of your work in these areas. We love seeing practical applications of your skills, so share those impressive projects!
Communicate Clearly:Remember, you’ll need to translate complex data insights for non-technical audiences. Use clear and concise language in your application to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively. We’re looking for clarity as much as technical prowess!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at HM TREASURY
✨Know Your Data Science Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical skills, especially in Python and AWS. Be ready to discuss your previous projects and how you've used data science to solve real-world problems. This role is all about leading data science initiatives, so showcasing your expertise is key!
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Since you'll be translating complex analyses into insights for non-technical audiences, practice explaining your work in simple terms. Think about how you can convey the impact of your findings to senior leaders and ministers. Clear communication can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Data Scientist, you'll need to motivate your team and foster a culture of learning. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to guide others in best practices and how you’ve encouraged innovation in your previous roles.
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
This role involves working closely with various departments, so think about how you can build positive relationships. Prepare to discuss your experience in cross-functional teams and how you've embedded user-centric products in your previous work. Collaboration is crucial in this environment!
