> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2803694-lead-data-scientist-operational-research-optimisation](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2803694-lead-data-scientist-operational-research-optimisation). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Lead Data Scientist - Operational Research & Optimisation

- **Company:** Xpertise Recruitment
- **Location:** Greater London, UK
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Contract:** Temporary contract
- **Skills:** Data Analysis, Computer Programming, Integer Programming, Linear Programming
- **Published:** September 9, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.collegerecruiter.com/job/2856358327-lead-data-scientist-operational-research--optimisation

## About the Role

* Strong Operational Research and optimisation experience within complex environments
 * Expertise in mathematical modelling and decision science techniques
 * Experience with Linear Programming (LP), Mixed Integer Programming (MIP) and Constraint Programming
 * Proven delivery of optimisation solutions that generate measurable business value
 * Advanced Python development skills
 * Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
 * Experience leading complex analytical programmes or technical teams
 * Heuristic and Metaheuristic Optimisation
 * Simulation Modelling and Scenario Planning
 * Network, Supply Chain or Resource Optimisation environments
 * Experience within transport, logistics, retail, utilities, manufacturing, aviation, infrastructure or engineering sectors
 * Exposure to cloud-based analytics platforms
 * IR35 Status: Inside IR35

## Description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Lead Data Scientist with a strong background in Operational Research, Optimisation and Decision Science to join a major FTSE 100 organisation on an initial 18-month contract. This role will play a critical part in delivering advanced optimisation and mathematical modelling capabilities that drive strategic and operational decision-making across the business.

About the Opportunity

Our client is undertaking a significant transformation of its analytical and decision-support capabilities. As part of this journey, they are investing heavily in advanced optimisation, operational research and data-driven decision-making to enhance business performance at scale.

This position offers the opportunity to work on complex, enterprise-wide challenges while influencing senior stakeholders and shaping the future direction of Operational Research within the organisation.

Why Join?

 * Lead high-profile optimisation and decision science initiatives
 * Influence strategic planning and enterprise-wide decision-making
 * Work alongside senior stakeholders across a large-scale organisation
 * Join a major transformation programme with significant visibility and impact, * Lead Operational Research and optimisation initiatives across multiple business functions
 * Design and deliver advanced mathematical and optimisation models to support strategic decision-making
 * Develop solutions focused on planning, scheduling, resource allocation and operational efficiency
 * Partner with senior stakeholders to identify opportunities for data-driven business improvementTranslate complex business problems into scalable optimisation frameworks
 * Provide technical leadership across Data Science, Analytics and Operational Research teams
 * Promote best practice in optimisation, mathematical modelling and decision science
 * Ensure analytical solutions are production-ready, scalable and embedded within business operations


## Related Videos

- [Augmented Intelligence for transport planning: Human in the Loop Modelling](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/72-augmented-intelligence-for-transport-planning-human-in-the-loop-modelling)
- [Data Science in Retail](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/586-data-science-in-retail)
- [Comfortably Quantum with Qrisp](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1434-comfortably-quantum-with-qrisp)
- [Data Science on Software Data](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/162-data-science-on-software-data)
- [Go Generics](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/435-go-generics)
- [Devouring APIs with Python](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/355-devouring-apis-with-python)

## Related Articles

- [Data Analyst Salary in the UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/278-data-analyst-salary-in-the-uk)
- [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk)
- [Best Companies to work for in London: Top 25 Companies in 2023](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/187-best-companies-to-work-for-in-london-top-25-companies-in-2023)
- [Software Engineer Salary London](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/252-software-engineer-salary-london)
- [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs)
- [The Most Popular IT Jobs on the Market](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/376-the-most-popular-it-jobs-on-the-market)