Descartes Underwriting | Senior Data Scientist – London

Descartes Underwriting is hiring a Senior Data Scientist in London to enhance climate models and risk analysis for B2B clients. Responsibilities include developing algorithms, collaborating with business teams, and leading projects in the London market. The role requires a degree in data science or related fields, at least 4 years of experience, and proficiency in Python and machine learning. Fluency in English and another language is preferred.
ABOUT DESCARTES UNDERWRITING

Descartes was born out of the conviction that the ever-increasing complexity of risks faced by corporations, governments and vulnerable communities calls for a renewed approach in insurance.

Our team brings together industry veterans from the most renowned institutions (AXA, SCOR, Swiss Re, Marsh, Aon, ...) and scientists on top of their field to bring underwriting excellence. After 6 years of existence, Descartes has secured a leading position in parametric insurance for weather and climate-related risks utilizing machine learning, real-time monitoring from satellite imagery & IoT.

After a successful Series B raise of $120M USD, we launched Descartes Insurance, a 'full stack' insurer licensed to underwrite risk by the French regulator ACPR. With a growing corporate client base (400+ and counting), our diverse team is headquartered in Paris and operates out of our 17 global offices in North America, Europe, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan. Descartes is trusted by a panel of A-rated (re)insurers to carry out its activities.

ABOUT YOUR ROLE

Descartes Underwriting is seeking a Senior Data Scientist to join our Underwriting Team based in London.

Reporting to the Underwriting Manager, you will be a key contributor to the development of climate models or forecasting tools in close and effective cooperation with all business units.

Your responsibilities will include :

Individual contribution in Underwriting projects
• Improve and develop new algorithms, new risk models and products for our B2B client;
• Conduct structuring work, risk analysis and insurance proposal for worldwide public sector and corporate clients;
• Collaborate with the business team and brokers to understand client needs and risk transfer challenges to successfully underwrite new business and renew accounts;
• Operate in the London market, leading discussions and projects with brokers and partners.

Technical & Business Leadership
• Be a referent for junior Underwriting Data Scientists and provide them guidance on technical modeling matters & business requirements;
• Participate in the development of Descartes’ technological platform to differentiate Descartes from its competitors (nat cat models and pricing tools);
• Collaborate with various divisions of Descartes technical teams (R&D Modellers, Data & Innovation team, Risk Management).

ABOUT YOU

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
• Graduated from a Business or Engineering school/academic institutions with a specialization in data science, computer science, applied mathematics, climate and meteorological studies or related;
• 4 years’ of significant experience minimum (post graduation) in data science or related;
• Proven track record of significant experience in leading a (small) team and managing business projects;
• Prior experience in structuring, pricing & underwriting (parametric) insurance covers for climate risks is a plus.

SKILLS
• Proficiency in Python (e.g. pandas, scikit-learn);
• Proficiency in statistics, probabilities, applied mathematics and machine learning methods;
• Eye for quality, autonomous and attention to detail;
• Fluency in English (written and verbal communication) is required;
• Good command of one additional language (e.g. Chinese, French, Italian, German, Spanish...) is valued.

MINDSET
• Interested in insurance industry and emerging risks modeling (climate);
• Strong team spirit and ability to work under pressure;
• Eagerness to solve complex problems and technical challenges;
• Rigorous, creative and meticulous mind;
• Strong desire to learn and acquire responsibility;
• Results oriented with the ability to work in a fast-paced and multi-cultural environment.

WHY JOIN DESCARTES UNDERWRITING ?
• Opportunity to work and learn with teams from the most prestigious schools and research labs in the world, allowing you to progress towards technical excellence;
• Commitment from Descartes to its staff of continued learning and development (think annual seminars, training etc.);
• Work in a collaborative & professional environment;
• Be part of an international team, passionate about diversity;
• Join a company with a true purpose – help us help our clients be more resilient towards climate risks;
• A competitive salary, bonus and benefits.

At Descartes Underwriting, we cherish value of diversity whatever it may be. We are committed to fighting against all forms of discrimination and for equal opportunities. We foster an inclusive work environment that respects all differences.

With equal skills, all our positions are open to people with disabilities.

RECRUITMENT PROCESS
• Step 1: HR Interview with our Talent Recruiter
• Step 2: Technical online test
• Step 3: In person or remote technical interview
• Step 4: In person team interview to meet our team and discover our offices