Lead Data Scientist

Position Overview

We are seeking a Lead Data Scientist to join a newly formed AI Lab within a prominent banking institution in Abu Dhabi. This role offers a unique opportunity for a technically skilled and hands-on professional to lead AI and machine learning initiatives from conceptualization through to deployment in a banking context.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct the end-to-end design, development, and release of sophisticated AI and machine learning applications tailored to banking scenarios.
• Manage the full lifecycle of AI projects, including problem identification, data handling, modeling, deployment, ongoing monitoring, and performance refinement.
• Create production-quality solutions utilizing Python, SQL, and contemporary ML/AI frameworks.
• Develop and implement cutting-edge technologies such as Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), Natural Language Processing (NLP), and agent-based AI where applicable.
• Collaborate closely with Data Engineers, Software Engineers, and Product teams to transition AI solutions into live environments.
• Construct reliable machine learning pipelines, API services, model serving systems, and implement MLOps best practices.
• Set standards and practices in model deployment, testing, surveillance, reproducibility, and the application of ethical AI principles.
• Stay abreast of emerging AI innovations and evaluate their potential to deliver substantial benefits to the bank.
• Provide mentorship to Data Scientists and influence the technical trajectory of the AI Lab.

Candidate Profile

• Over 8 years of experience in Data Science, Machine Learning, AI Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, or other quantitatively intensive fields.
• Advanced proficiency in Python programming and exceptional SQL skills.
• Demonstrated success in deploying machine learning and AI models into production environments.
• Comprehensive knowledge of software engineering concepts, including version control with Git, API development, software testing methodologies, continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD), and container technologies.
• Familiarity with cloud service platforms such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform.
• Experience using modern ML/AI frameworks and technologies like PyTorch, TensorFlow, Hugging Face transformers, LLMs, RAG, vector databases, and agentic AI is highly preferred.
• Background in banking, financial services, or fintech is beneficial.

Additional Information

The employer emphasizes a preference for candidates with a strong Computer Science or technical foundation rather than those with predominantly business or MBA qualifications. The ideal hire will be an autonomous, pragmatic builder capable of independently shepherding AI projects from conception to production stage. This position is based onsite in Abu Dhabi.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.