Head of Data Science

Lead the Future of Data Science at Zalando: Head of Data Science Position

Are you ready to lead a dynamic data science team at the forefront of Customer Relationship Management (CRM)? Join Zalando, Europe's leading fashion platform, as our next Head of Data Science and drive state-of-the-art scientific solutions in the field.

About the Role

In this pivotal role, you'll oversee multiple teams dedicated to developing data-driven strategies that resonate with millions and convert intent into long-term customer relationships. Your responsibilities will span the entire spectrum of customer activation, engagement, retention, and lifetime value.

You will measure effectiveness, devise innovative solutions to optimize CRM performance, and apply your expertise in machine learning, predictive models, optimization algorithms, experimentation, and causal inference to enhance our marketing investments. Acting as a bridge between Software/Data Engineering and Data Analytics, you’ll define best practices and repeatable solutions to expedite the experimentation of complex research plans at the department level.

Collaborate with senior leaders, principal engineers, and scientists in your department to deliver complex initiatives, guide cross-functional teams, and present insights about status and challenges. You will also ensure that both new and existing data-driven capabilities developed across multiple product areas continue to deliver value.

Who You Are

As an exceptional leader, you will embark on a journey to redefine the nexus of data science and customer relationship management. Here’s what we’re looking for:

• Scientific Leader: A visionary with a Master’s or PhD in a quantitative field, deeply knowledgeable and strategic in guiding teams through data science in CRM.
• Leading Leaders: At least 3 years of experience in leading leaders, managing diverse teams, and leveraging machine learning, econometrics, and experimentation to drive business outcomes.
• Collaboration Champion: Expert at fostering partnerships with product teams, engineers, and marketing professionals, working towards shared goals.
• Catalyst for Innovation: Proven track record of empowering teams, encouraging ownership, and translating scientific rigor into tangible business solutions.
• Business Savvy: Strong understanding of business operations, particularly within CRM, guiding the team through challenges aligned with departmental goals.

Where Your Expertise Is Needed

• Mentor data scientists, review and guide their work, develop team roadmaps, and serve as a role model.
• Keep the team updated with the latest research in causal inference methods.
• Provide constructive scientific feedback and coach team members to excel in research.
• Improve team and company processes to ensure high-quality research through documentation, peer review, and structured feedback.

What We Are Looking For

• Ph.D. in a quantitative field with an emphasis on computational research methods.
• At least 5 years of experience managing industrial research projects.
• Proficiency in advanced causal identification research methods (experimental and/or quasi-experimental design).
• Strong general scientific problem-solving skills with strategic and tactical execution capabilities.
• Ability to communicate analytical insights to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Proven ability to mentor other scientists with a strong sense of ownership and drive.

Why Join Us?

• Be a key player in a department driving Zalando’s growth.
• Access to cutting-edge infrastructure and massive datasets.
• Build leading solutions to enhance state-of-the-art CRM products and processes.
• Blend scientific rigor with real-world business impact celebrated globally.
• Shape the future of marketing as Zalando transforms into The Starting Point for Fashion.

Perks at Work

• Culture of trust, empowerment, and constructive feedback.
• Competitive salary, employee share shop, 40% Zalando shopping discount, and discounts from external partners.
• Flexible working hours, additional holidays, and volunteering time off.
• Extensive onboarding, mentoring, and personal development opportunities.
• Relocation assistance for internationals, PME family service, and parent & child rooms (select locations).

We celebrate diversity and are committed to building teams that represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives,