Join NEXT as the Head of Data Science and take a pivotal role in transforming our vast customer data into measurable commercial value and an exceptional customer experience. This is a unique opportunity to lead the strategy for key commercial applications, driving sales growth and market leadership. Based at Head Office in Enderby, Leicestershire. Salary is highly competitive and complemented by management share options, car/allowance, private medical insurance and more.

About the Role:
This position's central purpose is to monetise the huge amount of data NEXT collects—billions of rows per week—to grow sales by making it easier for customers to find the items they want that make them feel great everyday. You will be tasked with leading the modelling, reporting and use of gen and agentic AI.  A solid focus on commercial outcomes is crucial, requiring you to develop and implement the functional strategy for significant areas like NEXT ads, Search, and Recommendations. 

Key strategic projects include Personalisation for the website, emails, and digital marketing, in real time, by leveraging the latest in data science techniques. This work is concentrated on the e-commerce remit and the goal is to improve each step of the strategy and execution rather than following a rigid, large-scale roadmap. You will also lead key partnering relationships with senior executives across the organisation, providing high-quality advice, particularly around Personalisation.

As a leader, you will be guiding a team of 12 people with 2-3 direct reports and tackling the biggest challenge of commercially advancing Data Science within the business and aiding in the adoption of new AI tools across the business.  You will work closely with the Data Engineering and Web Analytics functions to utilise their expertise in aiding your model building and ensuring your data architecture is robust. 

About You:

We are looking for a candidate who is a recognised thought leader in their area of expertise and is prepared to challenge and question priorities up to CEO level. You must be solid on commercials and concentrate on delivering results that bring the clearest commercial benefit. You must be able to translate innovative ideas into practical solutions and actively champion the best creative ideas into implementation. Experience in retail, particularly online, is ideal, leveraging data from 15 million customers and 20 million weekly visits. A background in Project Management is essential, with the ability to guide others on managing projects within the desired cost, time, and quality parameters. You must be comfortable acting as the organisational authority on Data Collection and Analysis, and managing information throughout its lifecycle, including the design of architectures, policies, and practices The role requires a committed office presence to ensure vital stakeholder and peer presence You are prepared to make tough decisions, even if unpopular, and have the strength and maturity to support individuals and teams through difficult circumstances.

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