Lead Data Scientist

About the role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Lead Data Scientist to drive the development and delivery of advanced data science solutions in a production environment. This permanent remote opportunity is suited to a senior data professional with strong technical expertise and proven leadership experience.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, deployment, monitoring and retraining of machine learning and AI models.
• Apply advanced statistical modelling and data science techniques to solve complex business problems.
• Develop robust data science solutions using Python, Jupyter Notebooks, pandas, NumPy and scikit-learn.
• Work with Delta Lake or comparable lakehouse architectures, including PySpark, feature stores, training-data versioning and schema evolution.
• Develop and optimise data solutions using Azure Synapse Analytics, Azure SQL, T-SQL and/or ANSI SQL.
• Produce meaningful analytics and visualisations using Power BI and Python-based tools.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to data scientists.
• Take ownership of delivery and collaborate with senior stakeholders.
• Potentially lead an Agile delivery squad within the Platform organisation.

Required profile

• 7+ years' experience across data science, data analytics or data warehousing, with substantial recent data science experience.
• At least 2 years' experience in a technical or engineering leadership role.
• Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline or equivalent professional experience.
• Strong production-level experience across machine learning, statistical modelling and AI system design.
• Excellent written and verbal English communication skills.
• Willingness to travel to Johannesburg or Cape Town a few times per year; proximity to either city is preferred.

Required skills

• Advanced Python proficiency (pandas, NumPy, scikit-learn, Jupyter).
• Experience with Delta Lake or comparable lakehouse environments and PySpark.
• Strong data warehousing and SQL expertise (Azure Synapse, Azure SQL, T-SQL, ANSI SQL).
• Experience with Power BI and data visualisation.