Senior Design Researcher

Pontoon Solutions

City of Edinburgh

Hybrid

GBP 45,000 - 65,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

A major digital transformation company is seeking a Senior Design Researcher on a 6-month contract in Edinburgh. You will lead research on how customers interact with financial products, partner with cross-functional teams, and shape design strategies. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in research and strong communication skills. This role is perfect for someone experienced in digital banking and looking for a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

  • Proven experience leading end-to-end research projects.
  • Strong background in exploratory research.
  • Ability to work strategically and autonomously.

Responsibilities

  • Lead strategic and exploratory research on customer interaction.
  • Define the future customer journey within the app.
  • Deliver insights that shape design direction.

Skills

Leading end-to-end research projects
Exploratory or generative research
Stakeholder management
Excellent communication

Job description

Overview

Senior Design Researcher – 6-Month Contract

Location: Edinburgh (2 days per week on site) - candidates not located in Edinburgh will not be considered.

Direct message the job poster from Pontoon Solutions

What You’ll Do
  • Lead strategic and exploratory research into how customers interact with savings and current accounts on mobile.
  • Partner with designers, product managers, and engineers to define the future customer journey within the app.
  • Develop research plans and deliver insights that directly shape design direction and long-term strategy.
  • Work independently within a collaborative, cross-functional environment — setting the research vision for a brand-new team.
  • Bring a strong voice for customers into every stage of the design process, from discovery to delivery.
What We’re Looking For
  • Proven experience leading end-to-end research projects that inform both design and product strategy.
  • Strong background in exploratory or generative research, uncovering unmet needs and emerging behaviours.
  • Ability to work strategically — not just understanding the now, but helping define the next.
  • Confidence working autonomously and influencing teams with clear, actionable insights.
  • Experience across varied industries — bringing fresh perspectives to the world of digital banking.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Nice to Have
  • Experience within financial services or digital banking.
  • Hands-on usability testing and evaluative research experience.
Why Join?

You’ll be part of a major organisation at the forefront of digital transformation in financial services — where research truly shapes how customers save, spend, and interact with their money. Expect a culture that values curiosity, collaboration, and continuous learning, with the freedom to explore new ways of thinking.

Candidates will ideally show evidence of the above in their CV to be considered. Please click the “apply” button.

Application Note

Please be advised if you haven't heard from us within 48 hours then unfortunately your application has not been successful on this occasion. We may, however, keep your details on file for any suitable future vacancies and contact you accordingly.

Company

Pontoon is an employment consultancy. We put expertise, energy, and enthusiasm into improving everyone’s chance of being part of the workplace. We respect and appreciate people of all ethnicities, generations, religious beliefs, sexual orientations, gender identities, and more. We do this by showcasing their talents, skills, and unique experience in an inclusive environment that helps them thrive.

Company details
  • Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
  • Employment type: Contract
  • Job function: Design and Research
  • Industries: Financial Services and Design Services

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

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