Growing and sustaining high-performing data teams is one of the most important and most challenging responsibilities for today’s data leaders. This exclusive evening event, hosted by the Data Science Festival in partnership with Deliveroo, brings together an intimate group of managers and senior practitioners for an interactive programme of lightning talks and breakout discussions.
Three expert speakers, from Deliveroo and across the wider industry shared their experiences on:
-Hiring elite data teams and maintaining quality at scale
-Developing and empowering teams once they are in place
-Sustaining long-term performance and impact through culture, leadership, and future-proofing strategies
Each short talk was followed by intimate breakout discussions, giving attendees the chance to connect with peers, share experiences, and take away actionable insights.
Talk 1
Speaker: Mahana Mansfield, VP Science @ Deliveroo.
Title: The Qualities That Great Data Scientists Share – and How to Assess Them
Abstract: Hiring great data scientists takes more than scanning for technical brilliance. The most impactful hires bring a balance of deep analytical skills, creativity in problem-solving, and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively. In this talk, Mahana will share the common qualities that set exceptional data scientists apart and why both technical and soft skills are critical to long-term success.
Talk 2
Speaker: Priscilla Nagashima, VP of Data and AI @ Pleo.
Title: From ladders to lattices: the career framework your Data team can actually use
Abstract: Traditional career ladders break when data roles span engineering, analytics, product, data science and now AI. Your data scientist ships production code, your analytics engineer shapes product strategy and your senior IC has no interest in management. This talk shares how we designed a career framework for Data at Pleo that recognises hybrid roles, using capability mapping data and talent reviews strategically to create compelling growth paths beyond people management.
Talk 3
Speaker: Dmitry Sityaev, Director of AI @ Connex AI.
Title: Beyond the Model: Inspiring Purpose and Belonging in Data Science Teams
Abstract: Sustained motivation doesn’t come just from excelling at your job — it comes from a sense of care, belonging, and shared purpose. When leaders bring care, connection, and flexibility into how they manage, data scientists don’t just get more done — they find meaning in the work. In this talk, Dmitry will share practical strategies for nurturing motivation and long-term engagement within data science teams.
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