Lead User Researcher

JR United Kingdom; Derby; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A public sector consulting firm is seeking a Lead User Researcher to manage complex user research programs. This role involves mentoring researchers and influencing design decisions. Ideal candidates have consulting experience and SC clearance, making a measurable impact in government services. The position offers a competitive salary and flexible working across the UK, excluding London.

Benefits

Flexible working

Supportive benefits

Qualifications

• Strong consulting experience delivering user research in public sector, government, or healthcare.
• Proven ability to lead research teams and deliver actionable insights at scale.
• Deep understanding of user-centred design principles and research methodologies.
• SC clearance (or eligible to obtain).
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex user research programmes across multiple public sector projects.
• Translate user insights into actionable guidance for design and delivery teams.
• Mentor and coach junior researchers, shaping capability across the practice.
• Influence stakeholders at all levels regarding service design.
• Drive best practice in user research and advocate for inclusive design.

Skills

User-centred design principles

Consulting experience

Stakeholder management skills

Mentoring abilities

Job description

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Lead User Researcher – UK Wide (Excluding London)

Up to £95,000 – Permanent

We’re looking for a Lead User Researcher to join a high-impact, public sector-focused team. This is a senior, hands-on role where you’ll drive research strategy, mentor other researchers, and ensure user insights directly shape critical government and healthcare services.

If you come from a consulting background, are SC-cleared, and thrive in fast-paced, high-responsibility environments, this role gives you the chance to make a real impact.

What you’ll be doing

• Lead and manage complex user research programmes across multiple public sector projects
• Translate user insights into actionable guidance for design and delivery teams
• Mentor and coach junior researchers, shaping capability across the practice
• Influence stakeholders at all levels, ensuring evidence-based decisions guide service design
• Drive best practice in user research, advocating for inclusive, accessible, and ethical design
• Work across delivery phases: discovery, alpha, beta, and live, ensuring research has real-world impact

Experience required

• Strong consulting experience delivering user research in public sector, government, or healthcare
• Proven ability to lead research teams and deliver actionable insights at scale
• Deep understanding of user-centred design principles and research methodologies
• SC clearance (or eligible to obtain)
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

Nice to have

• Knowledge of UK Government Service Standard and GDS practices
• Experience in service design or digital transformation consulting
• Active involvement in design/research communities (mentoring, speaking, thought leadership)

Why this is different

• Work on high-impact public services that affect millions
• Shape the future of user research capability and practice in the public sector
• Lead a team of talented researchers in a collaborative, mission-driven environment
• Flexible UK-wide working (except London) with supportive benefits
• Opportunity to make your mark on government and healthcare services across the country

? We’re looking for leaders who combine consulting experience, public sector knowledge, and hands-on research capability to deliver measurable impact.

To explore this opportunity, get in touch directly.