Senior Data Scientist

Operative helps media companies be successful.

We are a leading revenue accelerant for global media companies, offering innovative SaaS solutions that manage advertisements across both TV and digital platforms. With over 20 years in the market, 800+ employees, and 10 offices worldwide, we empower the world's largest media companies like FOX, NBC, HBO, CBS, and Disney. Our platform handles $60B+ in revenue, serving 25,000+ users globally.

At Operative, we are on a mission to help media companies thrive in an industry disrupted by rapid technological changes, data evolution, and shifting consumption paradigms. We provide the power of an open, data-driven, and highly configurable architecture that works seamlessly across linear, digital, and cross-media deals. Our commitment to innovation and excellence has made us a trusted partner for over 300 global media customers.

We believe in attracting and developing talent who are skilled, ambitious, compassionate, and curious to learn. Our team is dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can grow and make a meaningful impact. It's genuinely an exciting time to join Operative.

Ready to make an impact? Join us today and be part of a dynamic team driving media transformation and convergence! We’re building the future of media.

Role Overview

We are seeking an exceptional Senior Data Scientist to join our AI and analytics team in the UK.

This is a pivotal role for someone passionate about applying cutting-edge data science, machine learning, and AI technologies to solve complex business challenges in the media and advertising industry.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Data Science & AI Innovation

• Advanced Analytics: Develop and implement sophisticated statistical models, machine learning algorithms, and predictive analytics solutions
• AI Solution Architecture: Design and build scalable AI/ML systems for forecasting, optimization, and automated decision-making
• Research & Development: Stay current with emerging AI trends, evaluate new technologies, and prototype innovative solutions
• Model Development: Create and refine models for audience forecasting, inventory optimization, and revenue maximization

Technical Leadership & Collaboration

• Engineering Partnership: Work closely with large-scale data engineering teams to design and implement robust data pipelines and infrastructure
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Partner with product, engineering, and business teams to translate complex data insights into actionable business solutions
• Technology Evangelism: Champion best practices in data science and AI across the organization
• Mentorship: Guide junior team members and share knowledge across technical teams

Customer & Stakeholder Engagement

• Client Interaction: Present complex data insights and AI solutions directly to customers, translating technical concepts into business value
• Internal Consulting: Serve as the go-to expert for data-driven decision making across all departments
• Solution Design: Collaborate with customers to understand their unique challenges and design tailored analytics solutions
• Thought Leadership: Represent the company's data science capabilities in industry forums and customer engagements

Industry-Specific Applications

• Media Analytics: Develop forecasting models for audience behaviour, content performance, and advertising effectiveness
• Optimization Solutions: Create mathematical optimization frameworks for inventory management and campaign planning
• Revenue Intelligence: Build predictive models for pricing, yield optimization, and financial forecasting
• Automation Systems: Design AI-powered automation for media planning, campaign management, and operational workflows

Required Qualifications, Experience & Skills/Competencies

Technical Excellence

• Advanced Degree: MSc/PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related quantitative field
• Programming Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in Python and R, with strong SQL skills
• Machine Learning: Deep understanding of ML algorithms, statistical modelling, and optimization techniques
• Data Engineering: Experience with large-scale data processing, ETL pipelines, and distributed computing
• Visualization: Proficiency in Tableau, matplotlib, or similar tools for data visualization and storytelling

Professional Experience

• 5+ years of data science experience in commercial environments
• Proven track record of delivering production-ready ML models and analytics solutions
• Industry Experience: Background in media, advertising, or similar data-intensive industries preferred
• Client-facing Experience: Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders

Core Competencies

• Analytical Thinking: Exceptional problem-solving skills with ability to tackle ambiguous, complex challenges
• Technical Adaptability: Quick learner who stays current with emerging technologies and industry trends
• Communication: Excellent presentation and documentation skills for both technical and business audiences
• Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and deliver results under tight deadlines

Preferred Qualifications

Advanced Technical Skills

• Deep Learning: Experience with neural networks, natural language processing, or computer vision
• Optimization: Knowledge of mathematical optimization, linear programming, or operations research
• Cloud Platforms: Familiarity with AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud for scalable data science solutions
• Big Data: Experience with Spark, Hadoop, or similar distributed computing frameworks

Industry Knowledge

• Media/Advertising: Understanding of advertising operations, media planning, or broadcast management
• Financial Modeling: Experience with revenue forecasting, pricing models, or financial analytics
• Real-time Systems: Knowledge of streaming data processing and real-time analytics

Leadership & Innovation

• Team Leadership: Experience mentoring junior data scientists or leading technical initiatives
• Research Background: Published research, patents, or contributions to open-source projects
• Innovation Mindset: Track record of identifying and implementing novel solutions to business challenges

We are looking for candidates who are:

• Passionate about applying data science to solve real-world business problems
• Curious about emerging AI technologies and their practical applications
• Collaborative and excited about working with diverse, cross-functional teams
• Customer-focused with a desire to understand and solve customer challenges
• Growth-oriented and eager to advance their career in a dynamic, innovative environment

Technical Excellence

• Ability to quickly understand complex business domains and translate them into data science problems
• Strong foundation in statistical methods combined with practical machine learning implementation skills
• Experience building production-ready systems that can scale to enterprise-level requirements

Business Acumen

• Understanding of how data science creates business value and drives decision-making
• Ability to prioritize projects based on business impact and technical feasibility
• Experience working in customer-facing roles or supporting sales and marketing efforts

Innovation & Adaptability

• Proven ability to learn new technologies quickly and apply them effectively
• Track record of staying current with industry trends and emerging best practices
• Comfort with ambiguity and ability to work in a fast-paced, evolving environment

What we offer:

• Cutting-edge Technology: Work with the latest AI/ML technologies and industry-leading data infrastructure

• Innovation Culture: Encouraged to experiment, research, and push technological boundaries

• Global Impact: Your work will directly impact major media organizations worldwide

• Collaborative Culture: Work with world-class engineering and product teams

• Hybrid Home/Office working model*

• Company Bonus Scheme

• Competitive Leave Allowances

• Recognition and Wellness Programs

• office attendance is required depending on your proximity and location

Please apply with your CV in English.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package. All offers are conditional on references, verification of the right to work in the UK, and successful background screening checks. If you’re interested in joining a fast-growing, innovative company and you meet the above requirements, don’t hesitate to apply today!

Operative is a merit-first, equal opportunity employer.

Operative cares about your privacy and protecting your data. By submitting an application for a position with Operative, you acknowledge that you have read Operative’s Candidate Privacy Policy available here, and consent to how Operative treats your data.

Location: United Kingdom (London preferred, remote/hybrid options available)

Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent

Travel: Occasional travel for customer meetings and industry events

Security: Ability to obtain security clearance if required