Data Science Director

“This is a two-day onsite opportunity, split between our Tech Hub in Old Street and our HQ in Hatfield.”

About us: Ocado Technology is putting the world's retailers online using the cloud, robotics, AI, and IoT. We develop the innovative software and systems that power Ocado.com, the world's largest online-only grocery retailer, as well as the global "Ocado Smart Platform". We champion a value-led culture of Trust, Autonomy, Craftsmanship, Collaboration, and Learn Fast to help our teams work at their very best.

About the role:

This is a strategic leadership position sitting at the intersection of complex maths and physical reality. You will lead a high-impact cluster of four teams covering a broad spectrum of interesting and challenging areas including Logistics optimisation (algorithms for routing optimisation), applied ML (for continuously improving our drive/drop time estimates), forecasting and modelling. 

Our data teams within Logistics research and build the algorithms that optimise decisions for the world’s most advanced warehouses and delivery networks. 

You’ll be responsible for the strategy and delivery of data science, ML, and operations research across both Logistics and Fulfillment (CFCs). We need a leader who can take us from "great research" to "production-scale impact," energising the team to push boundaries rather than settling for the status quo.

What the role involves:

• Fostering a tight working relationship between data science and engineering to move ML models into production at scale.
• Overseeing the long-term vision for our 4-team data science group, ensuring research depth translates into operational value.
• Supporting and developing our data science crafts while helping the wider organisation understand where the biggest opportunities live.
• Working with Data Engineering and Analytics to embed a strategy that captures the right metrics for better product decisions.
• Line managing Data Team Leaders and representing the data function within the Logistics and Fulfillment Senior Leadership Teams.

What we're looking for:

• In-depth knowledge of ML, and how to deploy models in production at scale (MLOps).
• A proactive problem solver comfortable with the ambiguity of physical hardware and complex logistics
• A strong communicator adept at data storytelling, capable of managing complex stakeholder relationships by listening as much as influencing.
• The ability to use data to help product management prioritize feature development and measure improvements post-release.
• A leader who creates happy, high-performing teams through coaching, 1:1s, and a commitment to knowledge sharing.

What do I get in return:

• Hybrid working pattern (2 days in the office)
• Wellbeing support through Apps such as Unmind and an Employee Assistance Programme
• 25 days annual leave, rising to 27 days after 5 years service (plus optional holiday purchase)
• Pension scheme(various options available including employer contribution matching up to 7%)
• Private Medical Insurance
• 22 weeks paid maternity leave and 6 weeks paid paternity leave (once relevant service requirements complete)
• Train Ticket loan (interest-free)
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Share options
• Leadership bonuses 
• Opportunity to participate in Share save and Buy as You Earn share schemes
• 15% discount on Ocado.com and free delivery for all employees
• Income Protection(can be up to 50% of salary for 3 years) and Life Assurance(3 x annual salary)

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