Consultant in Data Science

Consultants in data science play a pivotal role in guiding companies through projects involving data analysis and valorization, addressing critical issues such as standard compliance, security, and competitiveness. These professionals typically operate from the analysis of organizational needs to the implementation of tailored solutions, always ensuring alignment with the company’s objectives. They adopt a comprehensive approach to data-related challenges, offering services that cater to the specific requirements of each client.

Their role is to collect, organize, and exploit data, which is increasingly vital as companies expand their online presence. A significant volume of data accumulates from various sources, and these experts in data science interpret this information to create actionable elements that can drive strategic decision-making. In consulting, these professionals may work on a freelance basis or be employed by a consultancy firm, often collaborating on multiple projects simultaneously for different clients.

Consultants in data science are tasked with processing customer data, which includes sales figures, user behavior, and interactions from various online platforms, partners, and more, primarily for marketing purposes. Their duties involve:

• Collecting relevant data stored on servers, files, and databases, followed by data cleaning to eliminate unusable data and transforming the remaining data into a comprehensible format for non-expert audiences.
• Generating insightful reports, graphics, tables, and applications to present findings clearly.
• Offering consultancy on data governance, designing data quality policies, creating data visualizations, programming algorithms, and conducting gap analysis.

Their services extend to helping organizations build robust data strategies, utilizing advanced tools and technologies to deliver practical solutions that drive business growth.

A consultant in data science must possess a strong foundation in mathematics, computing, econometrics, signal processing, statistics, and operational research. Proficiency in these areas allows them to perform complex data analyses and develop advanced predictive models. Additionally, knowledge of machine learning and artificial intelligence enhances their ability to offer cutting-edge solutions, particularly in the context of digital transformation initiatives.

These professionals are expected to understand data processing practices comprehensively, from data collection and acquisition to formatting, modeling, analysis, and final output. They often collaborate with teams of engineers, analysts, and other specialists to ensure that the solutions provided meet the technical and strategic needs of their clients.

To acquire the necessary skills for this demanding role, aspiring data science consultants must undergo rigorous training in mathematics, statistics, and computer science.

At emlyon business school, the Bachelor of Science in Data Science for Responsible Business (BSc) is an ideal program. This four-year post-secondary course offers a multidisciplinary education, blending data science with management principles. Students benefit from hybrid teaching methods, gaining both technical and strategic expertise in data science, under the guidance of experts from emlyon and the École Centrale de Lyon.

For those with a bachelor’s degree, the Master of Science in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence Strategy is designed to provide advanced training in AI and data science. This program emphasizes responsible AI usage, combining technical mastery with strategic and ethical considerations. Graduates are equipped to lead AI initiatives within various industries, supporting businesses in leveraging AI for growth and innovation.

The career prospects for consultants in data science are promising. Junior consultants can expect a gross salary of around €3,500 per month. With experience, this figure can rise to €5,000 per month. As they gain experience, these professionals can advance to roles such as data analysts, revenue managers, or heads of CRM departments, often within large enterprises or specialized consulting firms like Accenture or IBM.

emlyon business school boasts four campuses (Lyon, Paris, Shanghai, Mumbai) and hosts over 9,000 students from 125 different nationalities. The school offers a diverse portfolio of higher education programs, including executive education for 6,900 participants annually, and maintains close ties with nearly 200 international academic partners. With its triple-crown accreditation, emlyon ranks among the world’s top business schools, providing an environment that fosters professional growth and academic excellence.