Lead Data Scientist

Here at Harding+ we are recruiting for a Lead Data Scientist to join our Technology team. You will be the first in our newly created Data Science function. The role will shape the way we use data and AI across the business, internally and with cruise partners. We have a dedicated BI team and are investing in a new Data Science function to unlock insights, apply advanced analytics and AI, and deliver measurable commercial impact. This role is an opportunity to own and grow a new team in a scaling retailer with a twist. The role can be based in Avonmouth Office or Miami Office - Hybrid 2/3 days a week.

• Build, validate, and deploy advanced statistical, machine learning, and AI-driven models addressing retail and cruise industry challenges (e.g., demand forecasting across ships, personalised promotions, dynamic pricing, customer segmentation).
• Explore AI techniques (e.g., recommendation systems, NLP, computer vision, generative AI) to improve customer experience and operational efficiency.
• Translate raw data into actionable insights on sales, promotions, margin, customer lifetime value, and store performance across a diverse fleet.
• Partner with senior stakeholders within Harding and external cruise line partners to align analytics and AI initiatives with strategic priorities.
• Provide insights to support tailored retail strategies for different cruise lines, enhancing passenger experience and commercial performance.
• Work with the BI team to ensure access to high-quality data and effective pipelines.
• Present findings to Harding’s senior leaders and cruise line executives, turning complex analysis into clear recommendations.
• Act as a founding member of the Data Science function, with the opportunity to grow into a leadership role and mentor junior hires as the team expands.

• Proven experience as a Data Scientist or Senior Data Scientist, ideally in retail, travel, or consumer-focused industries.
• Proficiency in Python (or R), SQL, and applied machine learning techniques.
• Awareness of AI tools and approaches (e.g., recommender systems, NLP, computer vision, or generative AI) and how they can be applied to business challenges.
• Strong grasp of retail and commercial metrics — sales, margin, promotions, stock, and customer analytics.
• Experience in building forecasting, optimisation, or segmentation models.
• Excellent communication skills — able to explain technical outputs in clear business terms to internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Self-starter attitude with the ability to set priorities and work independently.
• Exposure to Azure cloud-based platforms
• Familiarity with data visualisation tools (Power BI, Tableau, etc.)
• Experience mentoring junior analysts or scientists
• Experience working with external partners or clients, particularly in a commercial retail or travel context
• Must have an existing right of eligibility to work in the UK/US

Compensation – competitive salary, bonus scheme, pension, 4 x life assurance, healthcare cash plan, 26 days annual leave (plus the opportunity to buy an additional 5 days).

Harding+ is the only 100% dedicated cruise retailer, partnering with 12 cruise line operators globally, across more than 80+ ships. We operate over 300 retail shops across 80+ ships, covering 17,000m² of retail space and handling 6.6 million transactions annually. Our team includes over 1,300 onboard team members and more than 270 landside employees. We are an equal opportunities employer, valuing diversity and privacy and data security as priorities.

• Mid-Senior level

• Full-time

• Engineering and Information Technology

• Retail