Lead Data Scientist

KPMG New Zealand is part of the international KPMG network, one of the world’s leading professional services organisations. We provide audit, tax, and advisory services to individuals, SMEs, not-for-profit organisations, multi-nationals and government agencies.
Our people experience is anchored in a clearly articulated purpose of ‘Fuelling New Zealand’s prosperity’ and our contribution to the shared wealth and lasting well-being for all New Zealanders. In order to deliver this, we must attract, develop and retain the very best people and create a workplace environment in which everyone is able to flourish.  We are proud of our reputation for values-driven behaviour that guide our actions and defines what it means to work at and be part of KPMG.  We believe in Integrity – We do what is right; Excellence – We never stop learning and improving; Courage – We think and act boldly; Together – We respect each other and draw strength from our differences; and For Better – We do what matters.
Digital Consulting combines technology consulting with deep technical experience across a range of technology, areas and services. Our advisors combine extensive knowledge of data and analytics, cyber security, software development, IT strategy and operating models to provide clients with a service that adds recognised value.

The Opportunity:

• We are seeking a Lead Data Scientist to take a leadership role in our Data & Analytics team within One Digital Consulting. As a Lead Data Scientist, you will drive the strategic direction of our Data Science chapter, lead a team of talented data scientists, and deliver innovative solutions to complex business problems.

Day to day you will:

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced machine learning models and data-driven solutions.
• Oversee multiple projects, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with business objectives.
• Collaborate with senior stakeholders to define data strategies and identify opportunities for innovation.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of data scientists, fostering a culture of learning and excellence.
• Ensure best practices in coding, testing, and deployment are followed across the team.
• Communicate complex technical concepts and insights to non-technical stakeholders in a clear and impactful way.

What you’ll bring:

• 6+ years of experience in data science, with a proven track record of leading successful projects.
• Expertise in statistical and machine learning models, with a deep understanding of their practical applications.
• Advanced proficiency in Python and SQL, with experience in building scalable, production-ready solutions.
• Strong experience with cloud platforms, particularly Azure, and familiarity with MLOps practices.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor teams, fostering growth and collaboration.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence decision-making at all levels.
• Experience with end-to-end model development, deployment, and monitoring in production environments.
• Familiarity with reporting tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or Qlik.

Recruitment Agencies: The recruitment for this role is being managed directly by the KPMG Talent Acquisition team. We will contact our preferred agency partners if we require agency assistance. Thank you for your understanding.
Life at KPMG
KPMG values diversity in the workforce and we encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply for roles, including individuals with a disability, additional mental health needs, chronic health conditions or who identify as neurodivergent. 
For disabled and neurodiverse candidates, if you encounter accessibility barriers or if you have access needs and require support to participate equitably in the recruitment process, please phone Enya van Dulm on 04 816 4660 or email KPMGAccessibilityNetwork@kpmg.co.nz
We offer rewarding careers to talented individuals and a holistic range of benefits to support your life balance, whatever your circumstance. We want you to do Work That Matters, Thrive and Grow and know that you Belong here with us, at KPMG. 
As a KPMG employee, we will offer you: —  Access to the firm's annual incentive scheme—  Opportunities for local and international secondments—  Hybrid working across a mix of office, client and home hubs to recognise that people have individual circumstances and preferences when it comes to where and how they work— The ability to work from overseas and extend time connecting with friends and family outside New Zealand—  Flexible leave options, including the ability to purchase additional annual leave—  Gender-neutral support for all stages of the parental journey, including access to 18 weeks of fully paid parental leave for all new parents —   A paid professional association membership of your choice—   Digital accreditations through our partnership with Microsoft, LinkedIn Learning, with bespoke learning pathways for all employees—   A wide-range of special offers and discounts on insurances, banking services, and lifestyle goods and services—   The support, allyship and opportunity to join our many Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Affinity networks, including the Kiwa, Pride, Ethnicity, Accessibility and Wahine groups—  The opportunity to participate in Green Team activities, as we work toward reducing the firm’s environmental footprint and become carbon zero by 2030—  An invitation to join your local Social club and enjoy events aimed at bringing people together for social, sporting, cultural, family and fundraising activities—  Paid time off for volunteering and involvement in citizenship activities—  An array of health and wellness benefits such as free flu vaccinations, subsidised sporting events, free confidential counselling services, additional 5 days of Wellbeing leave to support you and your family's overall health and wellness, access to our Wellbeing portal with an extensive range of advice and resources and much much more! We believe that diversity of background and experience strengthens relationships and delivers meaningful benefits to our people, clients and communities. Our goal is to be recognised as an employer of choice for all, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, generation, flexible work status, family circumstances, sexual orientation or disability. Further info can be found on our website.