Head of Data Science - Advanced Analytics & AI

This position is offered on a 12‑month FTC basis. Join us as we embark on an exciting new chapter in our brand-new office at Circle Square, Manchester. Lead the delivery of AI‑driven value at scale - This newly created role exists to meet growing business demand for value delivered through data science, advanced analytics and AI. As Head of Data Science, Advanced Analytics & AI, you will provide both technical leadership and strategic direction, ensuring data products are aligned to business priorities and deliver tangible, measurable impact. This role would suit someone from a strong technical background who has a proven track record of delivering value through data, upskilling teams, and operating credibly at Head of level. You’ll lead multidisciplinary teams, collaborate closely with senior stakeholders across the organisation, and take ownership of turning complex data capabilities - including GenAI and Agentic AI - into production-ready solutions that solve real business problems. Responsibilities: You'll • Identify, prioritise and deliver data products aligned to business needs • Work collaboratively with stakeholders across multiple business functions • Translate complex analysis and insights into clear messaging for stakeholders with varying levels of technical knowledge • Ensure full compliance with data governance, regulatory and legal requirements • Provide day‑to‑day leadership of data science and analytics teams • Manage relationships with third‑party vendors and partners • Set Technical direction and providing strategic guidance across data initiatives • Lead by example through mentorship, coaching and upskilling of team members • Embed best practices and fostering a collaborative, inclusive, high‑performance culture • Take accountability for projects from inception through to production What You’ll Bring Technical & Strategic Expertise • Deep knowledge of data science, advanced analytics and AI, including GenAI and Agentic AI • Strong understanding of the mathematics, statistics and scientific principles underpinning modern AI and analytics techniques • Experience applying ethical, regulatory and governance frameworks • Proven experience in scaling, deploying and monitoring models in production, using MLOps best practices • Strong Python programming capability • Ability to define and execute data science and AI strategy, simplifying complexity and aligning outputs to business value Leadership & Delivery • A proven record of leading, mentoring and upskilling data science teams • Demonstrated success in delivering projects end‑to‑end, from concept through live production • Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence across multiple organisational levels • Strong prioritisation and delivery skills, operating at pace with a clear focus on outcomes • A tenacious, resilient mindset with a “can‑do” attitude and drive to make things happen Be Yourself. Make an Impact. Join Us. As a recognised Top 50 Inclusive Employer in the UK, we believe that diversity fuels innovation and success. We’re committed to building a workplace that reflects the communities and customers we serve. At TalkTalk, inclusion is part of our DNA – we’re all 100% human, and we’ve created a culture where you can truly be yourself. We’re not your traditional 9-5. We’re a dynamic, flexible workplace, and we’re excited to hear how you like to work. Whether you thrive in collaboration, focus better at home, or prefer a bit of both – let’s make it work. What We Offer • Flexible hybrid working – with a minimum of 50% office presence to support teamwork and connection • Collaborative office spaces designed for creative thinking and innovation • Generous holiday package – 25 days annual leave, 3 wellbeing days, and your birthday off (plus the option to buy up to 10 more days!) • Private healthcare for all employees • Competitive pension scheme and performance-related bonus opportunities • Free broadband for all employees • Life event gifts – celebrating milestones like marriages and births • Inclusive employee networks – open to all, supporting peer connection and thought-provoking conversations • Salary sacrifice scheme – save on dental, gym, and more • Big retail and leisure discounts • 3 paid volunteering days a year – because making a difference matters to us too