Lead Data Scientist

Lead Data Scientist

As a Lead Data Scientist at Cotality, you will be the technical authority responsible for solving our most complex predictive modelling challenges. You will guide the technical strategy for our core data products, which are used by major financial institutions across the UK, and will have the opportunity to make your mark on a new, ambitious data platform.

This role is about driving innovation and mentoring a talented team of data scientists to build best-in-class models. You will:

• Lead the design and implementation of advanced predictive models, applying sophisticated statistical and machine learning techniques to solve high-stakes business problems.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to fellow data scientists, elevating the team's capabilities and fostering a culture of excellence.
• Own the end-to-end model lifecycle, from initial R&D and prototyping through to deploying robust, scalable models into production pipelines.
• Partner with senior stakeholders across Product, Sales, and Leadership to translate complex business needs into elegant, effective analytical solutions.
• Champion best practices in model development, validation, and maintenance to ensure the quality and integrity of our analytical outputs.

Job Qualifications: We are seeking an exceptional technical leader. We strongly encourage applications from candidates with a background in any industry that involves large-scale, complex predictive modelling.

Essential Experience:

• Extensive Data Science

Experience

• A proven track record (typically 8+ years) of developing and deploying high-impact machine learning models in a commercial environment.
• Deep Modelling Expertise: Expert-level knowledge of statistical analysis, predictive modelling, and a variety of ensemble techniques (e.g., Gradient Boosted Trees, Random Forests).
• Core Technical Proficiency: High proficiency in Python for data science (including libraries like Pandas, Scikit-Learn, XGBoost/LightGBM) and SQL.
• Large-Scale Data Expertise: Demonstrable experience working with very large, complex, and sometimes messy datasets to build effective models. Experience with geospatial data is a significant advantage but not required.
• Technical Leadership & Mentorship: Proven ability to act as a senior technical guide, mentor other data scientists, and lead the technical direction of complex projects.
• Strong Communication

Skills

• The ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and influence strategic decisions.

Desirable Experience:

• Domain Knowledge: Experience in PropTech (Property Technology), FinTech (Financial Technology), or the financial services/lending industry.

• AVM Experience: Specific, hands-on experience developing or deploying Automated Valuation Models for the property market.

• Regulatory Environment: Familiarity with model validation, performance benchmarking, and compliance metrics within a regulated industry.

• Thrive with Cotality

At Cotality, we offer more than just a job — we deliver a benefits experience crafted to support your whole self. From flexible working arrangements to generous leave and standout private healthcare, our perks are designed to help you flourish both at work and beyond. Here’s a snapshot of what’s on offer:

• Time Away: Generous paid leave, 8 bank holidays, plus dedicated days for wellbeing and volunteering.
• Family Support: Up to 16 weeks of fully paid parental leave, along with a baby bonus to help you get started.
• Health & Wellbeing: Company-paid private medical cover, with mental health and wellness resources included.
• Retirement: Pension scheme with employer contributions.
• Financial Perks: £375 annual wellbeing allowance.
• Extras: Recognition rewards, referral bonuses, exclusive discounts, and more!

Cotality's Diversity Commitment:

• Cotality is fully committed to employing a diverse workforce and creating an inclusive work environment that embraces everyone’s unique contributions, experiences and values. We offer an empowered work environment that encourages creativity, initiative and professional growth and provides a competitive salary and benefits package. We are better together when we support and recognize our differences.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

• Cotality is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to attracting and retaining the best-qualified people available, without regard to race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, record of offences, age, marital status, family status or disability. Cotality maintains a Drug-Free Workplace.