Lead Data Scientist

Position: Lead Data Scientist
Location: London, United Kingdom
Simple Machines. Data Engineered to Life

Simple Machines is a leading independent boutique technology firm with a global presence, including teams in London, Sydney, San Francisco, and New Zealand. We specialise in creating technology solutions at the intersection of data, AI, machine learning, data engineering, and software engineering. Our mission is to help enterprises, technology companies, and governments better connect with and understand their organisations, their people, their customers, and citizens. We are a team of creative engineers and technologists dedicated to unleashing the potential of data in new and impactful ways. We design and build bespoke data platforms and unique software products, create and deploy intelligent systems, and bring engineering expertise to life by transforming data into actionable insights and tangible outcomes.

We engineer data to life.

We are seeking an accomplished Lead Data Scientist to drive complex data science projects from inception to delivery while providing strategic thought leadership to our clients. This is a client-facing leadership role requiring someone who can seamlessly blend deep technical expertise with exceptional executive presence and business acumen.

Your Role

You will own end-to-end client engagements, from initial scoping and relationship building through to successful delivery and ongoing account growth. As a senior leader, you'll be the primary client interface for complex, high-stakes projects, providing strategic counsel and innovative solutions that drive meaningful business impact.

Leadership & Client Management Requirements

Essential:

• Proven experience leading client engagements end-to-end with full ownership and accountability
• Demonstrated ability to build, manage, and grow significant client relationships
• Track record of successfully delivering complex projects while managing stakeholder expectations

Communication & Presence

Essential:

• Exceptional executive presence with ability to command attention in senior stakeholder meetings
• Sharp, concise communication style with ability to distil complex concepts into high-impact, memorable insights
• Confident presentation skills for C-suite and board-level audiences
• Ability to provide thought leadership and strategic guidance to clients

Thought Leadership Capabilities

Essential:

• Proven ability to provide senior-level strategic counsel and thought leadership
• Experience challenging client thinking and providing innovative solutions
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking capabilities
• Ability to see the "big picture" while managing detailed execution

Experience Level

Essential:

• Senior-level experience (likely 8+ years) with demonstrated progression into leadership roles within a top tier consulting firm
• Built and executed Data Science GTM strategy
• Experience delivering complex Data Science solutions within consumer driven organisations