Building Data Teams #4: Data Scientist
Introduction: How We Came Across the Partnership
Let me take you back. Way back. To earlier this year in April. That's right. This is when we DR Analytics Recruitment first was in contact with this business that needed a Data Scientist.
Me: "Hello, this is Douglas."
pleasantries exchanged
Potential Client: "Now, tell me about the market for data scientists and what we can expect to salaries to look like in the next few months? We're especially interested in AI capabilities...who isn't."
Me: "Well...how much time do you have? Let's schedule some time to discuss in further depth."
Potential Client: "Done, let's talk in a few weeks..."
The Outcome: This company was looking for a Data Scientist that had:
Experience: Junior to Senior experience, it is more about the culture fit.
Programming languages: Python, TensorFlow, and PyTorch for machine learning model development and deployment.
Analyse vibrational and time-series data to extract actionable insights for process improvements.
Work with throughput, recovery, and efficiency through advanced control systems and data visualisation tools.
Qualifications: ideally a PhD in a relevant field.
The Hunt
Given the specificity of the role, a wide net would not suffice. We needed precision. Whilst the experience level was quite broad, the industry and dataset specific knowledge less so.
Where we commenced the search?
Internal Database: First, I delved into our proprietary database, scouting for Data Scientists experienced with working in the mining industry.
LinkedIn Recruiter: This platform often reveals unique active and passive candidates which helped for the more senior end of candidates.
Industry Networking: Leveraging my industry connections, I sought recommendations and referrals for Data Scientists fitting the role.
Within two weeks, we had a shortlist of three highly-qualified candidates.
But recruitment isn't that easy.
Spanner in the Works
The spanner in this case was a merger that the company was going through. On top of this an office move! This put recruitment on the backburner and it became a priority to transparently share timelines and expectations with candidates. All of them were able to source other roles with ease so withdrew their interest.
Back to the drawing board.
Luckily, we recommenced the search and luckily over the next few weeks were able to meet and speak with 2x data scientists whose expectations were aligned to timeframes we were working with.
The Interview Process
June: 1st Interview Online
August: 2nd Face to Face Interview
September: verbal offer but merger delays
October: offer and acceptance of contract
The Journey
From April to Current Day, this process was not a quick and smooth onboarding but realistically as fast as possible under current business conditions. Over the journey, we were able to support both business and candidates and build great relationships. This was not a transactional relationship but a 6-month partnership which we hope to continue in the near future!
Conclusion: The Essence of Partnership
At DR Analytics Recruitment, we do more than just fill roles; we serve as an extension of your data team. Our unique background in the data & analytics sector enables us to identify not just any candidate, but the right candidate for your needs. We are committed to building future-proof data teams.
