SVP, Data Science Lead, CoE - Global Clients (AI)

Location: London, United Kingdom; hybrid work with teams in the office around four days a week

Company

hirify.global is WPP’s AI-driven media operating unit, combining media, data, technology, partnerships and the WPP Open platform to deliver personalised marketing and measurable growth for global clients.

What you will do

• Lead data science across global client engagements, overseeing statistical modelling, econometrics, machine learning, AI, forecasting, optimisation, attribution, propensity modelling and experimentation.
• Mentor and develop data scientists while establishing best practices for code, model validation, documentation, QA, version control and model governance.
• Own the technical stewardship and evolution of the Data Science CoE portfolio, including propensity modelling, ML-driven econometrics, marketing mix modelling, attribution, forecasting and simulation solutions.
• Provide senior technical assurance across problem framing, data requirements, modelling, validation, deployment and interpretation.
• Partner with DTA, product, data, technology and consulting teams to develop practical, scalable data science products and services.
• Advise priority clients and support solution scoping, resourcing, commercialisation and thought leadership across global client teams and partner hubs.

Requirements

• Significant experience leading data science teams and building technical capability in a complex, matrixed organisation.
• Expert understanding of statistical modelling, machine learning, AI and predictive analytics, with the ability to review and mentor technical work.
• Strong experience with econometrics or marketing mix modelling, attribution, propensity and classification models, forecasting, optimisation, experimentation, model validation and scenario planning.
• Strong proficiency in Python, R and/or SQL, plus practical knowledge of reproducible workflows, data pipelines, APIs, cloud data environments, version control, model QA and deployment.
• Experience turning technical methodologies into repeatable products or services and managing solution portfolios, roadmaps, standards and delivery quality.
• Strong understanding of media planning, buying, measurement and optimisation, with the ability to translate technical outputs into business and commercial value.

Nice to have

• Experience in media advanced analytics.
• Experience applying responsible AI practices and moving experimental techniques into robust, scalable solutions.

Culture & Benefits

• Collaborative, open and inclusive environment focused on creativity, trust, respect and professional growth.
• Access to global hirify.global and WPP networks, employee resource groups and learning opportunities in marketing, advertising, data and technology.
• Medical, dental and vision insurance, group retirement plans and significant paid time off.
• Partner discounts, employee mental health awareness days and frequent in-office events.
• Hybrid working model with flexibility and accommodations discussed during the interview process.