Senior Data Scientist - Forecasting

Job Summary

Square Enix is a leading publisher of entertainment content, known for iconic franchises such as Final Fantasy, Kingdom Hearts, Dragon Quest, NieR, Life is Strange, and Just Cause. Our mission is to create and deliver experiences that resonate deeply with the hearts and minds of our players.

We are seeking a highly analytical and technically skilled Senior Data Scientist to lead the data and technology aspects of our Forecasting function. This role is central to the success of our Forecast team, responsible for building robust internal tools and processes that enable collaborative model development, ensure data quality, and support continuous improvement. They will also act as a technical process design lead, working closely with project managers, analysts, and marketing stakeholders to prioritise and implement features that enhance our forecasting capabilities.

Learn more about the team's work:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mfvf5w1AnnE
• https://cloud.google.com/blog/products/data-analytics/square-enix-builds-a-customer-data-platform-with-google-cloud

Requirements:
Key Deliverables

• Lead the end-to-end Forecast process from a data and technology perspective.

• Design and develop internal tools for data scientists and modelling specialists to build and refine forecasting models.

• Build and maintain software utilities for development and QA within the Forecast team.

• Develop simulation tools for marketing teams to experiment with media scenarios and campaign strategies.

• Support the model's performance monitoring process and feedback loop.

Qualifications and Skills

Essential:

Technical Skills

• Demonstratable current proficiency in mathematics (e.g. A-level Mathematics with grade A, A+ or equivalent).

• Strong delivery mindset, with the ability to work under tight deadlines and consistently drive business impact.

• Proficiency in Python, including knowledge of modular code design using functions and classes.

• Experience in data science methodologies and statistical modelling, and model performance monitoring process.

• Experience in development of small-scale software or utilities (e.g. using Flask or similar frameworks).

• Familiarity with cloud computing platforms (e.g. Google Cloud).

• Experience using version control tools (e.g. Git)

Industry Knowledge (marketing and gaming)

• Understanding of game industry dynamics, including genre-specific sales patterns, platform strategies, long-tail revenue behaviour, and the impact of discounting and marketing campaigns.

• Ability to translate business logic into data-driven forecasting frameworks.

Soft Skills

• Strong communication skills, with ability to explain complex concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders

• Collaborative mindset and ability to work across data science, engineering, and business teams

Desirable:

• Ability to build and evaluate Bayesian models using PyMC or Stan, with a focus on real-world forecasting applications. Formal work experience not required.

• Good grasp of marketing and media modelling fundamentals.

• Experience in pricing analytics, demand modelling, or revenue forecasting within entertainment or consumer industries.

• Knowledge of simulation frameworks or scenario planning tools.

• Experience of managing/mentoring junior members.

Purpose & Values

• Purpose: Creating New Worlds with Boundless Imagination to Enhance People’s Lives.
• Values:
• Deliver Unforgettable Experiences
• Embrace Challenges
• Act Swiftly
• Stronger Together
• Continuously Evolve
• Cultivate Integrity