Is your next career step to become a Chief Data Scientist?
You know who you are. A high-calibre machine learning magician, a well-versed wrangler of data… but you want a bit more from your role. That may be career progression, more money or the chance to work on new, more exciting projects, but where do you go from here? Are you ready to become a Chief Data Scientist?
Many companies are beginning to increase investment in data science departments. One investment includes looking for leaders to build out new teams. But before you take the plunge into the C-level, weigh up what this role entails. Think about how much it will differ from what you do now.
The current landscape
Chief Data Science roles in companies of all sizes are increasing steadily as more investment is put into data efforts on a larger, operational scale within businesses. However, the actual ins and outs of this role can vary widely between organisation depending on size and structure.
As a Chief Data Scientist, the ability to highlight where exactly companies may be missing out in using the right data is key. You will also be making use of existing data. Shaping it from an analytical side where these opportunities can form a wider business strategy. As a Chief Data Scientist, you will be involved in different projects with both technical and business aspects. A leader and mentor to your team, a contributor but predominantly, a bridge connecting business strategy and data science projects.
You’ll need to be:
- Business-minded, with the responsibility and ability to drive consistent results from your team.
- Accountable for the data science efforts throughout your organisation.
- Keeping on top of new technologies and trends in machine learning and AI, applying these to the business where possible.
- Presenting a deep level of understanding of consumer desires. You should know what drives their actions through data insights, risk management, creating new products for consumers, and driving innovation through various business channels.
These elements are key in showing you are an able Chief Data Scientist.
Communication is key
It’s important to recognise that this isn’t a purely technical role. You’ll also have to be a great communicator, with the potential to be more hands-on with clients. When dealing with data, you will be innovative, creative and a problem solver with a strong head for analytics. As a Chief Data Scientist, you need to be confident in delivering watertight results at a business level. Simultaneously, you will be able to tell a story with your data to the wider business.
Anyone can interpret their own meaning from data sets. However, you need to have the confidence, knowledge, and skillset to show how your data adds business value on a broader level. Connecting the dots to show the impact and mapping of how the data is within the business. You’ll lead in defining business problems, through a natural ability to manipulate data. Working on algorithms and advanced machine learning techniques, solving problems with solutions that can be used operationally.
What to do next
It’s not a sprint to get to a C-level position. Take the time and develop your commercial experience, honing your skills as you go. You may be super smart with three degrees under your belt, but you need to know how to communicate with a non-technical crowd and put overly technical jargon behind you. This sounds easier than it is!
Most of all, soak up all information and experience as you can as you progress throughout your career.
When opportunities arise to take ownership of projects, lead others and take on more accountability for the outcomes of your team, take them. It’ll show your willingness for greater responsibility. Not least helping you improve these skills and give sustenance to your CV when applying for Chief roles.
Getting experience in hiring and managing other Data Scientists can be tricky. Where possible, offer to help out and step up in your current role. This will help you gain not only the experience itself, but look great to prospective employers, or management should you want to move up in your current company!
If you’re looking for a step up in your career, you’re in the right place – see how we can help.
