Principal Data Scientist

Principal Data Scientist

• Location: London (3 days per week on-site)
• Salary: ~100,000 - 130,000

About the Company

A global education group backed by a leading private equity firm is embarking on an ambitious technology transformation. With a network of premium schools across more than 80 locations and over 100,000 students worldwide, the organisation is known for its commitment to excellence and innovation in learning.

Having modernised its technology stack and introduced digital platforms for parents and teachers, the group is now turning its attention to the next frontier: unlocking the power of data to drive smarter decisions, enhance student experiences, and support its global growth.

The Opportunity

Were looking for a Principal Data Scientist to build and own the organisations data science capability from the ground up.

This is a newly created role at the centre of the companys digital and data strategy working closely with the CIO and senior leadership team to define where and how data can deliver the most value.

Youll help the organisation move from descriptive reporting to truly predictive and prescriptive insights applying advanced machine learning and data science to real-world challenges such as:

• Identifying patterns in student engagement and performance.
• Predicting churn rates and optimising retention.
• Understanding what drives new enrolments across schools and regions.
• Enabling teachers and parents to gain deeper, actionable insights.

This is a rare opportunity to shape a function, own the roadmap, and have direct influence on strategy within a high-growth, PE-backed environment.

What Youll Do

• Establish and lead the data science and machine learning capability.
• Partner with the CIO and executive team to define data priorities and build predictive solutions.
• Translate complex insights into clear, actionable outcomes for business stakeholders.
• Build the foundation for advanced analytics and data-driven decision-making across the organisation.
• Collaborate across application, marketing, and operational teams to identify and deliver measurable business impact.

About You

• Proven experience leading data science or advanced analytics in a scaling or transformative environment.
• Comfortable working with senior stakeholders and translating technical concepts into strategic outcomes.
• Strong technical foundation across machine learning, forecasting, statistical & predictive modelling/analytics.
• Commercially minded able to identify high-impact opportunities and measure value delivered.
• Tech stack is open for this hire to implement best practices but this is roughly what they are currently using Python, SQL, Azure (AWS or GCP if also fine) + experience with LLMs and GenAI is beneficial.
• Experience within a PE-backed or high-growth company is a strong advantage (but not essential).

If this role sounds of interest and would like to find out some more, please apply through the AD.

Principal Data Scientist