Core Data Scientist

Core Data Scientist Core Data Scientist at Optima Partners: translate data into practical ML-driven insights, partner with stakeholders, and deliver real business impact across sectors. We usually respond within three days We are looking for a Core Data Scientist to apply ML, statistical modelling and experimentation to solve complex business problems and drive measurable outcomes across our client base. You will work hands-on with large datasets, developing and deploying models, running tests and translating data into clear, actionable insights. The role focuses on building scalable data science solutions, validating performance through experimentation and partnering with stakeholders to ensure analytical outputs deliver real business impact. About us Optima Partners is a fast‑growing professional services firm helping leading organisations transform customer engagement at the intersection of marketing, technology and data. We work with major brands including Lloyds Banking Group, NatWest, Nationwide, Aviva, Virgin Media O2, BT, Centrica, and GSK. As we scale from 80 to 200 people we’re growing our Advanced Data team. We are collaborative, curious and focused on delivering practical insight that helps organisations make better decisions and grow sustainably. You will join a practitioner-led business with a strong data science community, working alongside people who are passionate about applying analytical thinking to real-world business problems. About the role As a Core Data Scientist , you will be a technical specialist who develops and implements ML models that deliver meaningful value for our clients. You will work closely with stakeholders to understand business challenges, translate requirements into analytical solutions, and turn complex outputs into clear, actionable insight. This is a great opportunity for a passionate data scientist to build their career across multiple commercial sectors, contribute to multi-disciplinary project teams and play an active role in a growing data science practice. What you will be doing Developing and implementing machine learning and statistical models to solve practical business problems Working with stakeholders to understand objectives, shape analytical approaches, and communicate findings effectively Translating technical outputs into clear, transparent, and actionable recommendations to support decision-making Exploring data, testing hypotheses, and identifying opportunities to create customer and commercial value Collaborating with teams across data science, engineering, strategy, and design to deliver high-quality outcomes Keeping up to date with emerging data science techniques, including practical applications of Large Language Models What we would like you to have Strong academic background in mathematics, statistics, science, engineering, or another numerate discipline Minimum 2:1 degree in a STEM subject, with a postgraduate qualification in a quantitative field considered beneficial Good knowledge of statistics, including experimental design, uncertainty quantification, and predictive modelling Experience with supervised and unsupervised machine learning techniques, ideally in a commercial environment Proficiency in Python and/or R, with the ability to quickly learn new tools and approaches to operationalising data science solutions Ability to communicate complex analysis clearly to audiences with both technical and non-technical backgrounds Inquisitive mindset, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a small team Awareness of commercial value drivers such as revenue, cost, profitability, and customer behaviour is advantageous · A strong academic background in maths, statistics, science, engineering or another numerate discipline. Why join us At Optima, you will work on varied, meaningful projects for well-known organisations while continuing to develop your technical expertise. You will be part of a supportive data science community with a strong culture of continuous learning, knowledge sharing and collaboration. You will have the opportunity to apply your skills across different sectors, learn from experienced practitioners and build a career path with clear opportunities for development and progression. What’s on offer Competitive salary + bonus up to 15% 37 days holiday (incl. Christmas shutdown) Private medical insurance, life & income protection Pension scheme 1,000+ employee perks Dedicated learning, training, and certification support If you’re ready to build your career in a practitioner-led consultancy where data science is applied to meaningful, real-world problems, we’d love to hear from you. Department Data Science Role Data Scientist Locations Charlotte Square, Edinburgh Remote status Hybrid