THE ROLE As a Principal Data Scientist, you bring a wealth of commercial experience applying data science to solve complex business challenges. You are equally comfortable designing predictive models, exploring emerging technologies, and explaining data science concepts to non-technical stakeholders. With a consulting mindset, you know how to uncover business value, shape opportunities in pre-sales, and guide clients through successful data science adoption. You will thrive in this role if you are: * A curious problem solver who challenges the status quo * Comfortable bridging the gap between technical data science and client business needs * Passionate about innovation and exploring “what’s next” in AI and ML * Experienced in working within Agile methodologies and consultancy environments * Committed to mentoring and developing data scientists in our team ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES Data Science Leadership * Lead the design and development of advanced predictive and traditional ML models * Provide technical guidance to teams and clients, ensuring best practices in ML development and deployment * Contribute expertise in ML Ops, supporting clients as they take models into production environments * Ensure delivery quality and technical excellence across all phases of an AI/ML project Innovation & Thought Leadership * Stay at the forefront of new data science and AI trends * Evaluate and experiment with emerging techniques, tools, and frameworks * Help clients understand the real-world business value of innovation in data science * Represent Valtech externally through conference speaking, publishing white papers, and blogging Client Engagement & Consulting * Act as a trusted advisor to senior business and technical stakeholders * Collaborate in pre-sales alongside Valtech’s business development teams, shaping data science opportunities and proposals * Translate complex data science concepts into clear, compelling narratives for non-technical audiences * Run workshops and discovery sessions with clients to identify high-impact data opportunities Must-have Qualifications * Extensive experience delivering AI/ML systems with proven commercial impact * Strong background in predictive modelling, statistical techniques, and Machine Learning * Demonstrated consulting experience - able to present and influence at senior levels * Ability to explain complex data science concepts in simple, business-focused language * Strong communication, collaboration, and client-facing skills * Appetite for continuous learning and innovation * Knowledge of Generative AI models and techniques (e.g. LLMs, transformer architecture, RAG) * Upper-intermediate English level NICE-TO-HAVE QUALIFICATIONS * Hands-on experience designing and deploying Generative AI solutions, including Agentic AI systems. * Familiarity with cloud-based data science platforms (AWS Sagemaker, GCP Vertex AI, Azure ML) * Experience with MLOps practices and taking models into production environments * Exposure to modern data engineering practices and integration with data pipelines * Pre-sales experience, including proposal writing and solution shaping * Familiarity with promoting responsible and ethical AI practices, including data governance, transparency, and fairness in model development