Lead Data Scientist - First Central

At 1st Central, everything starts with our people.

As one of the UK’s leading motor and home insurers, we use smart technology, data and great service to make insurance fast, fair and simple for over 1.4 million customers. We’re proud to create an environment where people feel supported, trusted and able to grow - whether that’s developing new skills, taking on fresh challenges or making a real impact every day. If you’re looking for a role where you can make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.

We’re looking for a Lead Data Scientist to join a team of data scientists and specialists, helping to deliver a portfolio of innovative services that unlock value from the company’s extensive information assets. In this role, you’ll apply advanced data science techniques, both independently and collaboratively, to uncover insights and drive business value. As a senior member of the team, you’ll also play a key role in mentoring and upskilling colleagues.

You’ll work with large volumes of data from a variety of sources, including structured and unstructured datasets. Using strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, you’ll analyse and interpret data, build predictive models, and develop machine learning algorithms to generate actionable insights.

As the Lead Data Scientist, you’ll be responsible for proposing solutions to business challenges and partnering with cross-functional teams to implement them. Recognising the dependencies Group companies have on technology provided in-house, you’ll collaborate closely with in-house technology providers, as well as data presentation and delivery teams across multiple locations, to ensure seamless and effective outcomes.

We’re big on flexible hybrid working . Our teams are based across Haywards Heath (West Sussex) and Salford Quays (Manchester). We primarily work from home but value collaboration, so we come together in person to keep ideas flowing, typically once a quarter. Prefer being in the office more often? That works for us too.

Core skills we’re looking for to succeed in the role:

• Analytical & Technical Skills: Proven analytical and statistical modelling skills
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with data science tools and programming languages (e.g. Python )
• Machine Learning: Ability to build and train Machine Learning models
• Professional Experience: Current Data Science experience, with Insurance industry exposure, highly advantageous
• Organisation & Time Management: Strong time-management and organisational skills
• Education & Qualifications: Degree in Data Science or other quantitative field
• Communication & Stakeholder Management Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with proven experience engaging and influencing stakeholders at all levels.

What’s involved:

• You’ll find opportunities for, scope out and develop data services, in