Data Science Lead - Logistics

Data Science Lead | Logistics, Autoplanner | Hybrid Working | London & Hatfield

Introduction:

Ocado Technology is changing the way the world shops using advanced Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, Big Data, Cloud and IoT. We develop the innovative software and hardware systems that power Ocado.com, as well as the unique ‘Ocado Smart Platform’ which is being implemented by ambitious retailers across the world from Europe to America, Asia and beyond.

Ocado Technology - UK: https://www.ocadogroup.com/

About the Role

As a Data Science Lead in Logistics, you will lead the Autoplanner team to build AI systems that unify planning across global warehouses and last-mile assets. Your mission is to deliver a single optimised plan that maximises profit and minimises lateness, bridging the gap between advanced research and live operational impact. Collaborating with Product and Engineering teams, you will integrate data science models into our global backend services to enhance the Ocado Smart Platform.

Beyond technical delivery, you will scale our operations by fostering a high-performing culture, mentoring team members, and driving best practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a multidisciplinary team of data scientists and software engineers to research, develop, and deploy sophisticated planning systems.

• Drive the development of machine learning solutions focused on predicting and optimising route requirements, staffing needs, and sales estimations.

• Identify new opportunities to add business value through machine learning and create proofs of concept to engage product managers.

• Collaborate with product teams to ensure the successful integration of data science models with backend services.

• Maintain a healthy delivery pace and cadence within the team, ensuring consistent output and continuous improvement.

• Provide dedicated mentorship and coaching through weekly 1:1s, goal setting, and regular feedback.

• Manage the end-to-end recruitment and development of a diverse team of technical experts.

• Champion and raise the bar for data science best practices and processes across the wider organisation.

• Manage the delivery of AI systems that balance day-to-day profit with operational excellence.

• Navigate technical and organisational ambiguity to deliver pragmatic, iterative results in a fast-paced environment.

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• A strong data science background with solid Python coding skills.

• Proven experience in building and deploying end-to-end machine learning solutions from discovery to production.

• Demonstrated experience in coaching, developing, and leading high-performing technical teams.

• A collaborative mindset with evidence of working effectively across different crafts and being comfortable with peer challenge.

• A pragmatic approach to delivery, focusing on quick outputs to learn and iterate fast.

• Comfort with ambiguity and a curious nature that encourages "outside the box" thinking.

Nice to Haves

• Experience with operational research and optimisation techniques.

• Experience in building and deploying Java backends and React frontends in a production environment.

Benefits

Our employee benefits are designed for you, we care about people and we’ve ensured we have a wealth of benefits that focus on your well-being. We regularly review our benefits to ensure we are supporting our employees appropriately. Currently, we offer technically stretching work, a competitive salary and; (add the following benefits in a bullet point format)

• Hybrid working patterns meaning part of the working week can be spent working remotely (typically 3 days per week).

• 30 days working from anywhere policy

• Wellbeing support through Apps such as Unmind and an Employee Assistance Programme

• 25 days annual leave, rising to 27 days after 5 years service (plus optional holiday purchase)

• Pension scheme (various options available including employer contribution matching up to 7%)

• Private Medical Insurance

• 22 weeks paid maternity leave and 6 weeks paid paternity leave (once relevant service requirements complete)

• Train Ticket loan (interest-free)

• Cycle to Work Scheme

• Share Options (5-10%)

• Opportunity to participate in Sharesave and Buy as You Earn share schemes

• 15% discount on Ocado.com and free delivery for all employees

• Income Protection (can be up to 50% of salary for 3 years)

• Life Assurance (3 x annual salary)

Be bold, be unique, be brilliant, be you. We are looking for individuality and we value diversity. We are an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to treating all applicants and employees fairly and equally. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to provide a positive, barrier-free recruitment process and supportive work environment. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application.

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