Lead Design Researcher — Shape Future Products

Vax; Droitwich Spa; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Vax is seeking a senior Design Research leader to drive the discipline, establish best practices and partner with Design, Engineering and Product teams. You will translate insights into opportunities and roadmaps while championing human-centered design across the innovation process.

You will plan and execute qualitative and quantitative studies, run workshops, and communicate findings through compelling storytelling to influence decisions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Design Research or related discipline.
• 8+ years’ experience in Design Research, Consumer Research, Human-Centred Design or Innovation roles.
• Strong expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Proven experience conducting ethnographic research, workshops and concept validation activities.
• Ability to translate research findings into actionable design opportunities and innovation strategies.
• Experience working with Design, Engineering, Product Management and Innovation teams.
• Excellent facilitation, communication and presentation skills.
• Willingness to travel as required to conduct research activities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Design Research discipline, establishing best practices and research methodologies.
• Plan and execute qualitative and quantitative research activities including ethnographic studies, contextual inquiry, usability testing and concept validation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with consumers and users to develop a deep understanding of their evolving needs and behaviours.
• Translate research findings into actionable opportunities, design principles and innovation roadmaps.
• Partner with Industrial Design and Advanced Development teams to shape future concepts, experiences and product directions.
• Facilitate workshops, product evaluations and co-creation activities that inspire creativity and cross-functional collaboration.
• Communicate research findings through compelling storytelling, presentations and recommendations that influence decision making.
• Champion Human Centred Design principles across the innovation process.
• Develop Design Research capability within the wider organisation.

Skills

Design Research

Qualitative Methods

Quantitative Methods

Ethnographic Research

Workshop Facilitation

Stakeholder Influence

Cross-functional Collaboration

Presentation Skills

Travel (as required)

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Design Research

Job description

Vax is seeking a senior Design Research leader to drive the discipline, establish best practices and partner with Design, Engineering and Product teams. You will translate insights into opportunities and roadmaps while championing human-centered design across the innovation process.

You will plan and execute qualitative and quantitative studies, run workshops, and communicate findings through compelling storytelling to influence decisions.