Join to apply for the Head of Data Science role at Compass Group UK & Ireland

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Join to apply for the Head of Data Science role at Compass Group UK & Ireland

Location: Birmingham or "Hybrid / Flexible"

Salary: Competitive + Bonus + Benefits

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Lead the future of AI and data-driven innovation.

We’re looking for a visionary and hands-on Head of Data Science to define and execute our enterprise-wide data science strategy. You’ll drive the adoption of Generative AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics across all business sectors, building the capabilities, team, and infrastructure to unlock high-impact, scalable innovation.

What You’ll Be DoingShape Strategy & Lead Innovation

• Define and deliver the data science vision, spanning GenAI, ML, and advanced analytics.
• Establish an AI Centre of Excellence to embed a data-first culture across the business.
• Be the senior voice on AI in leadership forums — shaping how data science drives strategic value.
  
  
  

• Deliver enterprise-scale GenAI apps (e.g. virtual assistants, copilots, RAG systems).
• Develop robust LLMOps pipelines for scalable AI deployment and governance.
• Lead classical ML initiatives alongside engineering teams — from training to monitoring.
• Stay ahead of emerging trends in AI/ML to inform technology adoption.
  
  
  

• Build tooling and frameworks for experimentation, A/B testing, and predictive modelling.
• Define ethical and governance standards for responsible AI use.
  
  
  

• Build and mentor a high-performing data science function embedded in product and business teams.
• Define team structure, tooling, and hiring roadmap to scale capability and impact.
• Act as a trusted advisor to commercial, product, finance, and marketing leaders.
  
  
  

• Proven experience leading enterprise data science teams in complex or product-led environments.
• A track record of delivering GenAI solutions using LLMs, prompt engineering, and RAG architectures.
• Deep understanding of experimentation, statistical modelling, and advanced analytics.
• Hands-on experience with MLOps practices, cloud environments (AWS or Azure), and classical ML model deployment.
• Proficiency in Python, SQL, and modern data science tools/platforms.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to simplify complex insights into strategic recommendations.
  
  
  

• Experience with AWS AI tools (SageMaker, Bedrock, Lambda).
• Familiarity with low/no-code platforms.
• Knowledge of ethical AI frameworks and responsible innovation practices.
  
  
  

• Scalable, high-impact data science solutions delivering measurable business value.
• Widespread adoption of AI/ML and self-serve analytics across teams.
• A strong, respected AI Centre of Excellence at the heart of business decision-making.
• A world-class, continuously evolving data science team.
• Governance frameworks that ensure AI is safe, secure, and ethical.
  
  
  

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Executive

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Engineering and Information Technology

• Industries

  Food and Beverage Services

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