Clive Humby is a globally recognised data scientist and business strategist, celebrated for revolutionising customer loyalty with the creation of the Tesco Clubcard. With a strong background in mathematics, having graduated from the University of Sheffield, Clive has always had a keen eye for patterns and insights. Early in his career, he joined the data and marketing firm Caci, where he swiftly rose through the ranks to lead the Market Analysis Division across the UK and Europe. During this time, he played a crucial role in the development of ACORN, the first geodemographic classification system in the UK, laying the groundwork for his future impact on consumer behaviour analysis.
Clive’s entrepreneurial journey truly began when he and his wife, Edwina Dunn, founded Dunnhumby. The company was born from their kitchen table in West London, shortly after they both left Caci on the same day. The couple’s vision was to use data to understand consumers on a deeper level. Their early clients included prestigious brands like BMW and Cable & Wireless. Dunnhumby grew rapidly and eventually made a global mark, establishing a presence in over 30 countries and influencing more than 350 million customers worldwide. Their defining achievement came in 1994 when they launched the Tesco Clubcard – a loyalty programme that changed the face of British retail. The system’s success stunned Tesco’s leadership and became a benchmark for customer data strategy.
In recent years, Clive has continued to shape the world of customer analytics as Chief Data Scientist at Starcount, a consultancy dedicated to modern customer insights. Widely acknowledged as a pioneer in the field, he was awarded an OBE in 2019 for his contributions to data and business. He also holds prominent academic positions, including a role as Head of Research at the Oxford Institute of Retail Management and a visiting professorship at Northwestern University. His co-authored book, Scoring Points, further details his success with Tesco and remains a key resource in the field of customer loyalty.
As a speaker, Clive Humby offers unparalleled insights into the power of data in business. His ability to analyse and interpret customer behaviour allows him to advise companies on enhancing engagement, tailoring services, and fostering long-term loyalty. With a track record that blends analytical brilliance and commercial impact, Clive continues to influence how businesses connect with their audiences, making him an invaluable asset to any organisation aiming to thrive in a data-driven world.
