Lead Data Scientist

Harding+; West of England; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus scheme

Pension

4x Life assurance

26 days + bank holidays

Employee retail discounts

Team socials x2 yearly

Job summary

Harding+ is seeking a Lead Data Scientist to become the first hire in our new Data Science function. You will shape how data and AI are used across our global business and with cruise partners.

You’ll turn rich datasets into insights that influence decisions in retail, operations and customer experience while defining the data science direction for Harding+.

Qualifications

• Analytical thinker who solves real-world problems and communicates ideas clearly.
• Experience as Data Scientist or Senior Data Scientist in retail/travel/consumer sectors preferred.
• Proficient with Python or R, SQL, and modern ML approaches.

Responsibilities

• Hands-on data work to uncover insights and build models for forecasting, pricing and customer behaviour.
• Collaborate with commercial teams, BI specialists and cruise line partners to translate data into actionable recommendations.
• Explore emerging AI tech and identify practical, revenue-driving applications.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Data Scientist experience

Python or R

SQL

Commercial metrics understanding

Presenting insights

Tools

Python

R

SQL

Azure

Job description

Lead Data Scientist

Organisation Harding+ Locations: Avonmouth, Bristol, UK

Application Deadline 29 days remaining

Make an Impact Where It Matters

At Harding+, data isn’t just numbers - it’s how we create better experiences for millions of cruise passengers around the world. We’re looking for a Lead Data Scientist to become the first hire in our newly established Data Science function, giving you the rare opportunity to shape how data and AI are used across our global business and with our cruise partners.

This is a role for someone who wants their work to be seen, valued, and acted on. You’ll turn rich datasets into meaningful insights that influence decisions across retail, operations, and customer experience - while helping define the future direction of data science at Harding+.

Why This Role Stands Out

Joining us now means stepping into a genuinely exciting growth phase. You’ll work alongside our established BI team, using high-quality data foundations to explore advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI solutions that deliver measurable commercial results. As the function grows, you’ll help shape its direction and may mentor future team members, giving you the chance to grow your leadership impact as the business evolves.

What You’ll Be Doing

In this role, you’ll work hands‑on with data to uncover insights and develop models that support forecasting, pricing, promotions, customer behaviour analysis, and operational performance across our fleet. You’ll collaborate closely with commercial teams, BI specialists, and cruise line partners, translating complex data into clear recommendations that support strategic decisions.

You’ll also explore emerging AI technologies and identify opportunities to apply them in practical, commercially meaningful ways - whether that’s improving forecasting accuracy, enhancing customer experiences, or streamlining operations. Your work will directly influence how Harding+ uses data to innovate and grow.

About You

• You’re an analytical thinker who enjoys solving real-world problems and communicating your ideas clearly.
• You bring experience working as a Data Scientist or Senior Data Scientist, ideally in a retail, travel, or consumer-focused environment,
• You’re confident using tools such as Python or R, SQL, and modern machine learning approaches.
• You understand commercial metrics and how data supports business performance,
• You’re comfortable presenting insights to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• You enjoy working collaboratively, are naturally curious, and are motivated by the chance to build something new and meaningful.

Experience with cloud platforms such as Azure, visualisation tools, or mentoring others would be welcomed, but what matters most is your ability to translate data into insight and action.

What You’ll Gain

You’ll be joining a collaborative, forward-thinking organisation where your ideas are valued and your impact is visible. Alongside a competitive salary, we offer:

• Performance related bonus scheme,
• Pension,
• 4x Life assurance
• 26 days plus bank holidays holiday allowance with the option to purchase additional days.
• Access to discounts to national retail brands online and instore via our employee portal
• Funded annual team socials x2 yearly.

Most importantly, you’ll be part of a company where innovation, inclusivity, and growth go hand in hand.

About Harding+

Harding+ is the world’s only dedicated cruise retailer, partnering with 12 global cruise lines and operating more than 300 retail shops across 80+ ships. With over 6.6 million transactions annually and a team of more than 1,500 colleagues worldwide, we’re proud to deliver outstanding retail experiences at sea - and we’ve been recognised as Cruise Retailer of the Year for 3 years running.

We’re committed to building diverse teams and creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, supported, and able to thrive. We hire based on skills, potential, and passion - and we’re excited to meet people who want to help us shape what comes next.