Head Of Data Science

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, a car allowance, private medical insurance and more.

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 lead the modelling, reporting and use of generative and agentic AI, with a solid focus on commercial outcomes. You will develop and implement the functional strategy for significant areas such as NEXT ads, Search and Recommendations.

Key strategic projects include Personalisation for the website, emails and digital marketing in real time, leveraging the latest data science techniques. You will guide a team of 12 people with 2‑3 direct reports and tackle the biggest challenge of commercially advancing Data Science within the business while aiding the adoption of new AI tools.

You will work closely with the Data Engineering and Web Analytics functions to utilise their expertise in aiding model building and ensuring a robust data architecture.

• 
  
• Recognised thought leader in data science who can challenge priorities at CEO level.
  
• Solid commercial focus, delivering clear commercial benefit.
  
• Translate innovative ideas into practical solutions and champion creative ideas into implementation.
  
• Experience in retail, particularly online, leveraging data from 15 million customers and 20 million weekly visits.
  
• Project Management background, guiding projects within cost, time and quality parameters.
  
• Organisational authority on Data Collection and Analysis, managing information life‑cycle, design of architectures, policies and practices.
  
• Committed office presence to ensure stakeholder and peer engagement.
  
• Prepared to make tough decisions, even if unpopular, and support individuals and teams through difficult circumstances.
  

Next is a FTSE‑100 retail company employing over 35,000 people across the UK and Ireland. We are the UK’s 2nd largest fashion retailer and the market leader in kidswear. With over 500 stores plus Next Online, we sell online from more than 70 countries worldwide.

• 
  
• 25% off most NEXT, MADE*, Lipsy*, Gap* and Victoria's Secret* products (when purchased through NEXT)
  
• Company performance‑based bonus
  
• Sharesave scheme
  
• On‑site Nursery available; OFSTED outstanding in all areas
  
• 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
  
• Early VIP access to sale stock
  
• Access to fantastic discounts at our Staff Shops
  
• Restaurants with great food at amazing prices
  
• Access a digital GP and other free health and wellbeing services
  
• Free on‑site parking
  
• Financial Wellbeing – Save, track and enhance your financial wellbeing
  
• Apprenticeship – Grow and develop on the job while gaining a qualification
  
• Direct to Work – Discount online and instore, collect your items the next day for free from your place of work or local store
  
• Support Networks – Access Network Groups to empower and celebrate each other
  
• Wellhub – Discounted flexible monthly gym memberships, with apps, PT sessions and more
  

Seniority level: Director

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Engineering and Information Technology

Industry: Retail

Office location: Head Office, Enderby, Leicestershire

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Next by 2x.

We aim to support all candidates during the application process and are happy to provide workplace adjustments when necessary. Should you need support with your application due to a disability or long‑term condition, please contact us by email (please include 'Workplace Adjustments' in the subject line), or call and leave a voicemail.