About the role

Aplyr's Quick Take

This role is for a hands-on Data Science Manager who will lead teams to develop and deploy data science products that drive business value. You'll be managing and mentoring junior data scientists while collaborating with other departments to ensure projects align with business goals. It's a mix of technical expertise and people leadership.

Good fit

Ideal candidates have a strong background in data science and AI, with experience in managing teams and delivering data-driven solutions. You should be comfortable with programming in Python and SQL, and have a collaborative working style.

Worth noting

This is a 12-month fixed-term contract, which may appeal to those looking for short-term opportunities. The role emphasizes a hands-on approach, which might not suit those preferring purely managerial tasks.

This position is offered on a 12‑month FTC basis.

Join us as we embark on an exciting new chapter in our brand-new office at Circle Square, Manchester.

Lead teams. Build products. Deliver real business value - As demand for data science products continues to grow across TalkTalk, our teams are expanding to meet the opportunity.

This newly created hands‑on Data Science Manager role will work alongside an existing Data Science Manager to lead high‑performing teams and deliver data science products that drive measurable business impact.

Reporting into the Head of Data Science, Advanced Analytics & AI, you will combine strong technical expertise with people leadership - guiding teams from proof of concept through to production, embedding best practice, and ensuring our data science capability continues to scale.

The Role - You will:

Support the Head of Data Science, Advanced Analytics & AI in delivering the department’s strategic mandate
Apply deep expertise in statistics, mathematics, data science and AI techniques, including GenAI, to solve complex business problems
Lead the development of data science products from POC to production, using agile, iterative and “fail fast, learn fast” approaches
Deploy robust, scalable data products into production using MLOps best practices
Ensure all solutions adhere to organisational, regulatory and legal data and AI requirements
Mentor, manage and continuously upskill junior data scientists and analysts
Create energy, momentum and pride within the team, positioning data science as an internal consultancy delivering world‑class outcomes
Collaborate closely with multi‑disciplinary teams across the business to ensure alignment and impact

What You’ll Bring

Technical & Analytical Expertise

Proven experience as a Data Science and AI expert, delivering tangible business value through data‑driven solutions
Educated to MSc, PhD or equivalent apprenticeship level in physics, mathematics, statistics, data science, AI or computer science
Strong programming capability in Python and SQL
Hands‑on experience with modern data tooling and platforms, including GIT, CI/CD pipelines, MLFlow and Databricks
Strong problem‑solving ability with experience managing complex, varied workloads

Leadership & Communication

Prior experience managing, motivating and upskilling junior team members
Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain the “why do we care?” to stakeholders with varying technical knowledge
Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, digitally transforming organisation, focused on outcomes and delivery
A collaborative team player with a tenacious, resilient, can‑do mindset

Desirable

Experience within the Telecommunications sector is a bonus, but not essential

Be Yourself. Make an Impact. Join Us.

As a recognised Top 50 Inclusive Employer in the UK, we believe that diversity fuels innovation and success. We’re committed to building a workplace that reflects the communities and customers we serve. At TalkTalk, inclusion is part of our DNA – we’re all 100% human, and we’ve created a culture where you can truly be yourself.

We’re not your traditional 9-5. We’re a dynamic, flexible workplace, and we’re excited to hear how you like to work. Whether you thrive in collaboration, focus better at home, or prefer a bit of both – let’s make it work.

What We Offer

Flexible hybrid working – with a minimum of 50% office presence to support teamwork and connection
Collaborative office spaces designed for creative thinking and innovation
Generous holiday package – 25 days annual leave, 3 wellbeing days, and your birthday off (plus the option to buy up to 10 more days!)
Private healthcare for all employees
Competitive pension scheme and performance-related bonus opportunities
Free broadband for all employees
Life event gifts – celebrating milestones like marriages and births
Inclusive employee networks – open to all, supporting peer connection and thought-provoking conversations
Salary sacrifice scheme – save on dental, gym, and more
Big retail and leisure discounts
3 paid volunteering days a year – because making a difference matters to us too

Skills & Tags

ai data analytics

Aplyr's read

TalkTalk is a UK-based telecom provider known for affordable broadband and TV services, attracting professionals in data science and product management.
Synthesized from recent postings & public sources

What's promising

•TalkTalk offers competitive pricing, appealing to cost-conscious consumers.
•The company invests in data science, creating opportunities for tech-savvy professionals.
•Recent hires indicate a focus on advanced analytics and AI, suggesting innovation in service offerings.

What to watch

•TalkTalk has faced customer service criticism, impacting its reputation.
•The UK telecom market is highly competitive, posing challenges to growth.
•Limited public information about employee satisfaction and workplace culture.

Why TalkTalk

•TalkTalk's emphasis on affordability distinguishes it from premium providers.
•The company's strategic focus on AI and analytics sets it apart in telecom innovation.
•TalkTalk targets both residential and business sectors, broadening its market reach.

Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?