Lead Data Scientist

Welcome to Hastings Direct - From our Group HR Director Pam Angel

We're a digital insurance provider with ambitious plans to become The Best and Biggest in the UK market. We've made huge investments in our data and tech capabilities over the past few years, along with nurturing our 4Cs culture. We're proud of the journey we're on as a company and know that our continued success will rely on the contribution of our talented colleagues.

We provide insurance for over three million customers, but we know there's even bigger opportunity out there. The fact you're now reading this job advert means we've tempted you to find out more about #lifeatHD - we really hope you like what you see, and you'll join us to share in the success of the exciting chapter that lies ahead.

We understand some people may not apply for jobs unless they feel they tick every box. If you are excited about joining us and think you have some of what we are looking for, even if you're not 100% sure we would love to hear from you.

Job Details - Lead Data Scientist

The Lead Data Scientist will lead and oversee projects which deliver cutting-edge data assets and predictive models that feed into Hastings' market-leading pricing activities.

This role is within a combined team of Actuaries and Data Scientists championing the adoption of the latest machine learning (ML) techniques to leverage powerful insights from vast amounts of customer information and augment traditional modelling techniques.

The Lead Data Scientist will combine their knowledge and understanding of data science concepts along with Hastings' domain knowledge and processes to develop advanced solutions to help Hastings become the top digital insurer in the UK.

They would lead a small team of data scientists, who would assist them in the creation of data science solutions and would require mentoring and support in their development.

Accountabilities

1. Taking the technical lead in projects that create and maintain analytical tools to support in the management of our risk portfolio
2. Develop best in-class models to predict claims outcomes, fraud, and other risk key performance indicators
3. Engineer powerful new features to be deployed into our rating algorithms or other internal algorithms
4. Identify, analyse, and monetise new data sources
5. Build reusable, maintainable, automatable, and innovative processes, and data and/or model pipelines
6. Manage and mentor junior Actuaries and Data Scientists
7. Support Senior Leaders in the delivery of strategic objectives

Skills we would love you to have

1. Strong technical modelling skills
2. Proven track record of delivering commercial value
3. Keen interest in emerging ML techniques and how these can be used within Underwriting & Pricing
4. At least 4 years' experience using structured query languages (SQL)
5. At least 4 years' experience using Python and ML libraries to build data science/machine learning products
6. Experience with using GitHub as a code collaboration tool as well as a product version control tool
7. Strong senior stakeholder management and communication skills
8. Ability to work cross-functionally with Data Engineers, Data Scientists, Actuaries and Pricing Analysts
9. Experience using Snowflake

Personal Attributes

1. Natural problem solver who loves building quality solutions to complex real-world challenges
2. Focuses on the bigger picture but not afraid to get into the detail when necessary
3. Dynamic, flexible, and delivery-focused work ethic required to adapt to a fast-paced environment
4. Takes ownership and accountability for key projects and workstreams

What we offer

Join us and you'll find a different way of doing things. We call it the 4Cs. We focus on getting it right for our colleagues, customers, company and community. As one of our colleagues, you'll be helping to drive our growth, so in return, we'll give you all the support, training and development you need. Not to mention plenty of recognition and rewards, and the scope to voice your ideas and put them into practice.

Reward

Salary- Attractive salary based on experience + car allowance (pay reviews also completed each year)

Flexible Working- We champion a flexible and hybrid working approach so please speak to your recruiter to discuss in more detail, including days in the office and at home.

Competitive Bonus Scheme- All colleagues are eligible for our annual 4Cs performance bonus, which is usually paid in March. The scheme is based on Hastings' performance against our business goals and your own personal performance.

Physical Wellbeing- as a Band 4 colleague, Hastings pay for you to receive private medical Insurance (also known as PMI) This gives you flexibility and convenience to see a specialist or consultant and allows you to decide when and where you will be seen.

Financial Wellbeing- As well as providing you with 4x your salary with our life assurance cover and income protection at no extra cost, pension contribution match up to 10%, we are proud to provide you with an AWARD WINNING package which includes - discounts and cashback at everyday retailers and on our own products, fee free independent mortgage advice, and free access to financial wellbeing support.

Mental Wellbeing programme- At Hastings Direct we understand that mental health cannot be scheduled, that's why we have a range of support to help you keep yourself well. We have the thrive mental health app, our colleague assistance programme available 24/7, our own, in-house mental health first aiders, support groups and a dedicated team to make sure we are covering your needs.

There's more!- 27 days annual leave + bank holidays, with the option to buy or sell one of your contracted weeks, access to our health care cash back plans, dental plans, discounted health assessments, Cycle to work and tech schemes, discounted and free onsite facilities, social events throughout the year and much more ....

Our 4Cs principles are simple: we believe by creating the right culture for our colleagues and giving them the right tools to do their job, we'll deliver good outcomes for every customer, helping us to grow the company profitably and sustainably and allowing us to invest in the communities we serve.

We deliver good outcomes for our customers every time by providing great products at the right price with our simple and straightforward service. We treat customers like we want to be treated - fairly, respectfully and with their best interests at heart.

Hastings Group is an equal opportunities employer which means we treat people fairly. We welcome applications from all suitably skilled persons regardless of their gender, age, race, disability, ethnic background, religion/belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or marital/family status. Please also note that we have a thorough referencing process, which includes credit and criminal record checks.

At Hastings Direct, we're committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, or throughout your journey with us at Hastings, we encourage you to be open with us. Our recruitment team is here to provide the support you need to ensure a fair and accessible experience for all.

Job posting end date: 06/03/2025

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