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# Principal Data Scientist

- **Company:** Aviva plc
- **Location:** Leeds, UK (Remote available)
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** £76,814.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics Applications, Data Analysis, Fraud Prevention and Detection, Machine Learning
- **Published:** August 23, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.adzuna.co.uk/jobs/details/5853142267

## About the Role

* Significant experience leading and developing high-performing Data Science, Machine Learning or Advanced Analytics teams, including managing senior technical specialists.
 * Proven track record delivering and imbedding data science projects across fraud and financial crime, using advanced statistical modelling, machine learning and AI techniques.
 * Experience leading complex stakeholder engagements and influencing strategic decision-making at senior executive level, with strong commercial awareness and business acumen.
 * Demonstrable experience introducing, scaling and embedding modern Data Science, Machine Learning, AI and analytical platforms within large, complex Enterprise organisations.
 * Strong technical expertise across predictive modelling, machine learning, AI, statistical analysis and model governance, with the ability to translate technical solutions into measurable business value.

## Description

Are you someone who thrives on leading high-performing Data Science teams, shaping commercial strategy, and driving innovation through advanced analytics, machine learning and AI to tackle fraud and financial crime challenges?

A bit about the job:

This is a senior leadership role within Aviva's Data Science function, responsible for driving the strategic application of Data Science, Machine Learning and AI across Fraud and Financial Crime. Working with one of the richest insurance datasets in the industry, you'll lead a team of Data Scientists and Analytics specialists to develop and deploy innovative solutions that deliver measurable business and customer outcomes.

You'll partner with senior leaders across Financial Crime, Claims, Risk, Operations and Technology to identify opportunities, shape commercial strategies, and lead complex data science engagements from concept through to implementation. The role will also be accountable for introducing and embedding new analytical platforms, advanced modelling capabilities and machine learning solutions that strengthen fraud detection, transaction monitoring and case management across Aviva.

As a recognised leader within the organisation, you will help shape Aviva's long-term Data Science strategy, influence investment decisions and continue building our reputation as a centre of excellence within the Global Data Science Practice.


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