Data Science & Analytics Graduate Programme

How we capture, analyse and use data is vital for our digital future. That’s where our Data Science teams come in. Join this two-year rotational programme and you’ll gain experience in a number of analytical teams and departments.

You’ll work closely with and learn from recognised experts in collecting and analysing large data sets. People who design software, work with robotic process automation, integrate machine learning and create data-led solutions.

Joining teams of Actuaries, Data Science and Pricing professionals, you’ll learn how to make the most of powerful insights. And you’ll gain experience of cutting-edge technologies such as Snowflake, DataBricks, Earnix and coding in Python, SQL and R.

Where you’ll be based

We’re committed to hybrid working. You’ll need to be in either our Bexhill or London office usually once a week, occasionally twice, with the option and flexibility of working from home on other days.

Starting your career with us

We understand that your first graduate role should be more than just a job. Starting your career at Hastings Direct gives you the chance to make your mark in an ambitious, rapidly growing and digitally driven business. A company that genuinely cares about you as an individual, respects your opinions and listens to your ideas. One where you can make a positive difference, because you’re encouraged to look for growth opportunities and achieve your full potential.

We aim to give you the experience and technical knowledge to progress your career. We’ll provide you with a nurturing and challenging environment to help expand your horizons, develop new skills and make new connections.

Most of all, you’ll find all the support you need, from people at every level, so you can fulfil your ambitions. From managers who are approachable and supportive, to colleagues who are always ready to help each other out. In short, you’ll have all you need to launch a successful career.

Your rotations

This two-year programme is designed to give you a variety of exposure to different aspects of data science and analytics. You’ll enjoy a series of project-based rotations that enable you to make a real contribution to our business.

You’ll gain practical experience in Actuarial & Data Science, Risk Pricing, Pricing Development and Analytics and Retail Pricing. This means you could be working on anything from predictive analytics on customer lifetime value or price optimisation, to identifying profitable market segments, automation or fraud detection. So, by the end of the programme, you’ll be ready to take on a mid-level role, become a mentor to future graduates, and add value to our work.

Your professional development

From the moment you join us, we’ll make sure you have access to a wide variety of opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

You’ll be enrolled on our early careers development programme, providing you, a suite of bespoke development which develops the strengths that we know graduates need to be successful at Hastings Direct. It also gives you the opportunity to network and meet others in similar programmes across the business.

And our inclusive, supportive culture means you’ll have a strong support network around you. From leaders to mentors, buddies to our Early Careers team, you’ll always have someone you can talk to about anything. From your future career at Hastings Direct, to where to get a coffee!

Meet some of the team

Luke, Graduate Data Scientist (First Year Graduate)

Being my first full-time role with no prior placements, almost everything has been a new experience for me! Hastings has given me an environment in which I can develop the skills I bought from my degree, working alongside others that are extremely accommodating but give me a lot of flexibility in how I approach problems and how I can potentially solve them.

Our recruitment process

After each stage, we’ll let you know if you’ve made it to the next one and what to expect. If you haven’t, we’ll be happy to give you feedback.

Apply

Choose the right programme for you, then just answer a couple of basic application questions and attach your CV.

Reviewing your application

We’ll review your application to see if you have what we’re looking for in your chosen programme.

Online assessment

Your chance to show us how you evaluate, reason and conceptualise, spot patterns, solve problems and use your numerical skills to draw conclusions.

Video interview

An interview covering why you want to join us, with some technical questions.

Meet us

From producing case studies and giving presentations, to group and role-specific tasks, this is your chance to shine.

Welcome!

If you’re successful, we’ll offer you a place on one of our programmes and call you to talk through the details.

Frequently asked questions

  • arrow-down cross I already work at Hastings Direct – can I still apply?
  • arrow-down cross I don’t have a visa – can I still apply to Hastings Direct?
  • arrow-down cross Can I apply to more than one programme?
  • arrow-down cross My degree discipline is not listed on the candidate specification for the programme I am interested in, can I still apply?
  • arrow-down cross I’m a mature student/graduate – can I still apply?
  • arrow-down cross Can I apply if I’ve already graduated?
  • arrow-down cross Do I need to relocate if I’m successful?
  • arrow-down cross I have a disability and/or health condition, are you able to provide support or adjustments throughout the recruitment process?

Ready to apply?

Are you ready for a graduate programme with a fast growing, digitally-focused insurance company? A business with huge ambitions to be the UK’s best and biggest digital insurer?

An organisation that focuses on profitable growth that’s truly sustainable, by doing the right thing for colleagues, customers, the community and the company – our 4Cs? Somewhere that celebrates openness and diversity by encouraging you to be yourself – and was ranked 9th in the Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List 2022/23?

Are you ready for a future with Hastings Direct?

Our 2023 early careers schemes are now closed for applications. Recruitment for next year’s scheme will open in early 2024.