Applied Science Manager / Lounge by Zalando (all genders)

Role: Applied Science Manager leading the Pricing Algorithms team for Lounge by Zalando. You will enable scientists and engineers to develop and operate demand‑based pricing algorithms that optimize discounts on billions of euros of goods each year. Responsibilities: - Lead a high‑performing interdisciplinary team of Applied Scientists and Engineers, translating algorithmic capabilities into business value. - Mentor and grow technical talent, guide career trajectories, and foster an inclusive, collaborative culture. - Define and execute roadmaps, navigating uncertainty and project complexity. - Oversee identification and development of high‑impact pricing levers. - Raise the bar for applied‑science excellence, establishing best practices and engineering standards. - Communicate and problem‑solve across all levels, partnering with product managers and commercial stakeholders. Qualifications: - PhD or MSc in a quantitative field with at least 5 years of industry experience in machine learning, operations research, forecasting, economics, or related areas. - Minimum 2 years of people and project leadership experience in ambiguous environments. - Familiarity with agile or project‑management methodologies for R&D. - Proven track record delivering solutions from idea to production. - Excellent verbal and written communication skills. - Strong Python experience in applied contexts. - Solid understanding of software‑engineering tools and best practices for translating research into production‑ready systems. What We Offer: - 27 days of holiday (full‑time) plus 2 paid volunteering days. - Hybrid working model with up to 60 % remote and up to 30 days per year working from abroad. - Employee share program. - Discounts: 40 % off Zalando fashion & beauty, 30 % off Lounge, plus external partner offers. - Relocation assistance (subject to agreement). - Family services, counseling, and support. - Health and wellbeing options, including mental‑health coaching. - Development opportunities through training platforms and bi‑annual peer reviews.