Senior Data Scientist - Operational Research and Optimisation Heathrow, England

As the nation's flag carrier, we take great pride in connecting Britain with the world and the world with Britain.

It's something we've been doing for over 100 years, ever since we launched the world's first international scheduled air service between London and Paris.

This originality has been in our blood since day one. It's the spirit we share with the people that fly with us, our partners, and our colleagues.

So, whether you are a reassuring voice on the end of a phone, a smile at the door, under a wing keeping the turbines spinning or landing us gently in far-flung places, a job at British Airways is yours to make.

We know great things can happen when you're inspired to think big and bring your ambition to work every day, which is why, at British Airways the sky is never the limit.

The role: Senior Data Scientist - Operational Research

As a Senior Data Scientist in the Operational Decision Support (ODS) team at British Airways, you will play a crucial role in leveraging data and operational research to enhance decision-making across Integrated Operations. This department is vital for ensuring the efficiency of core systems, data platforms, and digital tools, directly impacting the airline's operational performance and business objectives.

What you'll do:

• Develop quantitative models and products to address key business challenges, focusing on operational research methodologies.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to convert business requirements into mathematical models, applying predictive, prescriptive, and operational research techniques to solve complex problems.
• Implement machine learning and optimisation algorithms at scale, utilising operational research principles to improve decision-making and resource utilisation.
• Create metrics, reports, and dashboards, drawing on both historical and real-time data to support informed business decisions.
• Manage your project portfolio according to best practices in technology architecture and development processes, prioritising operational research applications.
• Communicate technical insights effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences, emphasising the impact of operational research in resolving business challenges.
• Cultivate strong relationships with stakeholders, demonstrating the advantages of operational research in achieving business goals.

What you'll bring to British Airways:

• Advanced analytical skills with expertise in a variety of data science, analytics, and operational research techniques to address business challenges.
• Strong communication abilities to present complex issues clearly and influence business decisions, especially through operational research applications.
• Proficiency in Python, SQL, and other programming languages, concentrating on developing operational research models and applications.
• Experience working collaboratively with cross-functional teams and engaging stakeholders at all levels to deliver impactful solutions.

Your experience:

• A numerate degree focused on data science, advanced analytics, or operational research.
• 2-4 years of experience applying analytics or data science techniques at scale, with a strong emphasis on operational research methodologies.
• A thorough understanding of specific business areas and key initiatives within British Airways, particularly in leveraging operational research to optimise business outcomes.

What we offer:

We believe that all the people who work with us should feel valued for the part they play. It's one of the reasons our rewards go far beyond a competitive salary.

From the day you join us, you'll get access to brilliant staff travel benefits including unlimited basic and premium standby tickets on British Airways flights. You'll also receive up to 30 discounted 'Hotline' airfares per year for yourself, friends, and family.

At British Airways you'll have the chance to take on new challenges and move forward in a way that feels right for you. We encourage all those who work for us to consider opportunities right across our business to help you develop and progress.

We never stand still, and we don't expect our people to either.

Inclusion & Diversity

At British Airways we all have a part to play in creating an inclusive place to work. Diverse representation among our people is really important to us and we recognise that all our colleagues are uniquely different and bring their own originality, creativity and identity to work.

Inclusion and diversity is a key driver of innovation and we're committed to creating a culture where everyone feels that they can be themselves. We're looking for people from all backgrounds and cultures to join us and be a part of our journey to become a Better BA as we continue to connect Britain with the world and the world with Britain.