Data Science Lead - Fulfilment

Ocado Technology is changing the way the world shops using advanced Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, Big Data, Cloud and IoT. We develop the innovative software and hardware systems that power Ocado.com, as well as the unique ‘Ocado Smart Platform’ which is being implemented by ambitious retailers across the world from Europe to America, Asia and beyond.

As a hands‑on technical lead for our Logistics Machine Learning team, you will manage a high‑performing, cross‑functional group of data scientists building models that drive strategic decision‑making. You will oversee the entire lifecycle, from deep research to production, solving complex retail challenges such as demand forecasting and routing optimization to scale the Ocado Smart Platform. You will bridge the gap between technical disciplines, collaborating with Engineering and Product teams to deliver world‑class ML systems. Beyond the technical scope, you will be a dedicated mentor and coach, fostering a culture of craftsmanship and continuous learning to ensure the team remains aligned with our mission to change how the world shops.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and champion a strong experimentation culture, leveraging A/B testing and hypothesis‑driven development to inform product and operational decisions.
• Drive end‑to‑end data science workflows from hypothesis generation and testing through to product integration and ongoing performance monitoring in production environments.
• Lead and manage a team of five data scientists across London and Kraków to deliver impactful ML systems.
• Provide strong technical leadership throughout the entire ML lifecycle, from initial research to productionisation.
• Collaborate with product managers to plan and prioritise the team's roadmap within the Logistics stream.
• Ensure the high technical quality, accuracy, and stability of the team's production systems.
• Mentor and coach data scientists through regular 1:1s, goal setting, and consistent feedback.
• Partner with Software Engineering, Data Engineering, and Data Analytics to ensure seamless integration of ML products.
• Quantify the business value of machine learning initiatives to help prioritise work across competing domains.
• Support models in production and iterate based on feedback from end users.
• Communicate complex machine learning concepts clearly to non‑technical stakeholders.
• Navigate technical and organisational ambiguity to maintain team focus and delivery.

What We’re Looking For

• A clear track record of delivering successful and scalable machine learning products.
• Proven experience in technical leadership and the ability to mentor a team of data scientists.
• Extensive experience supporting models in production environments.
• Strong stakeholder management skills across product, engineering, and data disciplines.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate ML concepts for a non‑technical audience.
• A pragmatic mindset focused on delivering quick outputs to learn fast and iterate.
• Confidence in shaping and maintaining high‑performing team standards.
• Ability to quantify business value and drive data‑led strategic decision‑making.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced environment with high levels of ambiguity.

UK Benefits

• Hybrid working patterns meaning part of the working week can be spent working remotely (typically 3 days per week).
• 30 days working from anywhere policy.
• Well‑being support through apps such as Unmind and an Employee Assistance Programme.
• 25 days annual leave, rising to 27 days after 5 years service (plus optional holiday purchase).
• Pension scheme (various options available including employer contribution matching up to 7%).
• Private Medical Insurance.
• 22 weeks paid maternity leave and 6 weeks paid paternity leave (once relevant service requirements complete).
• Train Ticket loan (interest‑free).
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Share Options (5‑10%).
• Opportunity to participate in Sharesave and Buy as You Earn share schemes.
• 15% discount on Ocado.com and free delivery for all employees.
• Income Protection (can be up to 50% of salary for 3 years).
• Life Assurance (3 × annual salary).

We are an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to treating all applicants and employees fairly and equally. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to provide a positive, barrier‑free recruitment process and supportive work environment. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application.