The Opportunity
ShareForce is seeking an experienced, hands-on Data Science Lead on a contract basis to take ownership of four established predictive models and lead the transition of data science capability from a specialist external partner into the internal team.
This is a delivery-focused role with a clear mandate: establish internal ownership of the models, complete the transfer of technical knowledge and capability, strengthen model management and governance, and leave behind a robust and sustainable data science operating model.
Combining deep technical expertise with strong leadership, you will work across a Microsoft Azure and Databricks environment, remaining close to the data and models while providing direction and assurance to senior stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Take end-to-end ownership of four predictive models, covering development, validation, deployment, monitoring, documentation and optimisation.
- Lead the transfer of technical knowledge, processes and model ownership from an external specialist partner into the internal team.
- Work hands-on with data, Python, SQL and modelling tools to resolve issues and improve model performance.
- Assess the existing data science capability and implement practical improvements to model management, governance, explainability and lifecycle processes.
- Ensure models are appropriately documented, monitored and supported to enable sustainable internal ownership.
- Help strengthen the organisation's approach to deploying and managing machine-learning models within Azure and Databricks.
- Identify and prioritise opportunities across predictive modelling, AI and external data that can deliver measurable business value.
- Develop the internal team's technical capability and establish effective ways of working.
- Advise senior stakeholders, translating technical findings and risks into clear commercial recommendations.
- Provide credible evidence of model performance, governance and capability to support strategic and due diligence requirements.
Skills and Experience
- Significant experience in data science, machine learning and predictive modelling, ideally gained in senior or lead-level roles.
- Deep practical expertise across the full model lifecycle, including development, deployment, validation and production monitoring.
- Strong Python and SQL skills.
- Practical experience with Databricks and Microsoft Azure.
- A strong track record of taking ownership of existing production models and improving their performance and management.
- Experience establishing effective model governance, monitoring and documentation practices.
- Experience in regulated financial services, insurance or a comparable regulated sector.
- Proven experience transferring technical knowledge and capability from external partners or consultancies into internal teams.
- Strong stakeholder-management skills and the ability to operate credibly with senior leadership.
- A delivery-focused approach and the willingness to remain actively involved in hands-on data science work.
- Experience joining organisations for periods of transition, transformation or capability build would be particularly valuable.
Contract and Working Arrangements
- Duration:6 months
- Rate: £650/day
- IR35: Outside
- Hybrid working from the Basingstoke office, with an expectation of 2-3 days onsite each week.
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