Associate Director, Data Science and Solutions, UK
About this role
Analytical thinkers and proactive problem solvers who thrive on translating complex requirements into robust solutions will excel in this Associate Director position at WPP Media. The data science team builds connected platforms and develops AI-enabled media tools like the Open Media Studio, bridging marketing strategy to scaled activation for leading brands. This team member will lead the delivery of advanced data science projects, contribute hands-on to specialised modelling efforts, and apply sophisticated techniques to address client communication challenges. The role exists to empower clients with a full range of analytics services that drive media effectiveness and foster innovation within the UK analytics structure.
What you will do
- Lead the delivery of advanced data science projects while translating complex analytical requirements into robust, implementable solutions.
- Contribute hands-on to specialised modelling efforts including propensity modelling, attribution modelling, creative analytics, and test and learn methodologies.
- Manage complex data science projects from conception to delivery while ensuring adherence to timelines and budget.
- Communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and translate business requirements into technical specifications.
- Identify and implement AI-driven solutions to enhance analytical capabilities and operational efficiency.
- Develop and maintain analytical tools, dashboards, and automated solutions while applying MLOps principles.
What you need
- Proven expertise in data science methodologies including statistical modelling and machine learning algorithms such as regression, classification, clustering, and time series analysis.
- Expert-level proficiency in Python alongside essential experience with SQL for data extraction and manipulation.
- Substantial professional experience in data science roles, ideally within the media industry, with demonstrable technical leadership and project management capabilities.
- Solid understanding of data warehousing concepts, ETL processes, and cloud platforms like GCP, AWS, or Azure.
- Deep understanding of the media landscape, advertising ecosystems, and key performance indicators relevant to media effectiveness and optimisation.
- Familiarity with data governance, privacy regulations such as GDPR, and ethical considerations relevant to the UK.
Nice to have
- Familiarity with Git, GCP, Docker, Plumber, FastAPI, Shiny, and Django
- Experience with MLOps principles and practices for productising data science models
Benefits
- Competitive medical insurance
- Group retirement plans
- Vision and dental insurance
- Significant paid time off
- Preferential partner discounts
- Employee mental health awareness days
Skills and tech stack
Questions candidates ask
What is the remote work policy for this role?
WPP Media has adopted a hybrid approach, with teams working in the office around four days a week. Candidates who require accommodations or flexibility can discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.
What tech stack will I be working with?
The role requires expert-level proficiency in Python and experience with SQL. Familiarity with tools and frameworks such as Git, GCP, Docker, Plumber, FastAPI, Shiny, and Django is highly desirable.
What kind of projects does the team work on?
The team builds connected data platforms and the Open Media Studio, an AI-enabled media and data platform. Members work on advanced data science projects, propensity modelling, attribution modelling, creative analytics, and test and learn methodologies.