Junior Data Scientist

Welcome to Hastings Direct

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 - Junior Data Scientist

The Junior Data Scientist will assist in the identification and creation of cutting-edge data assets and predictive models that feed into Hastings’ market-leading pricing activities.

This role is within a challenger product with a team comprising Data Scientists/Modellers as well as Analysts all championing alternative ways of risk analysis and market pricing.  

We are looking for individuals to leverage new a new tech stack  that enhances our potential model deployment capabilities. It is great that you are looking to build your career with us, please ensure you invest time in your application and where appropriate, use your internal network to help support your interest.

Your remit will include the following:  

• Create and maintain analytical tools to support in the management of our risk portfolio.  

• Develop best in-class models to predict claims outcomes, fraud and other risk KPIs.  

• Engineer powerful new rating factors to be deployed into our rating algorithms.  

• Identify, analyse and monetise new data sources.  

 Skills we would love you to have  

 Essential  

• Strong mathematics skills and solid understanding of statistical techniques used for data analysis purposes. 

• Keen interest and knowledge in ML techniques and their commercial value.  

• Understanding of Python, SQL 

• Ability to work cross-functionally with Data Engineers, Data Scientists, Actuaries and Pricing Analysts.  

  
Desirable  

• Experience using Deep Learning technologies.   

• Experience in R, Databricks, Azure ML, Git, Azure Cloud Services 

• GitHub as a code collaboration tool.  

  
Personal Attributes  

• Natural problem solver who loves building creative solutions to complex real-world challenges.  

• Ability to work independently to deliver solutions to a well-defined set of requirements.  

• Dynamic, flexible and delivery-focused work ethic required to adapt to a fast-paced environment 

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 (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 – We like to help our colleagues take a proactive approach in keeping themselves well, that’s why we fund our colleagues to be able to claim against everyday health care through our healthcare cash plan. 

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 not 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! – 25 days annual leave +bank holidays, with the option to buy or sell one of your contracted weeks, access to private healthcare, dental plans, discounted health assessments, cycle to work and tech schemes, discounted and free onsite facilities, social events throughout the year and much more. Most of our benefits and wellbeing resources are available to colleagues from their first day whilst some optional benefits, which involve committing to a 12-month payment schedule, are available as soon as you have completed your probationary period. 

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.

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