DIrector of UX Research

Aquent; Bentonville (AR); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Aquent is seeking a Senior Leader in Design Research who will guide the strategic direction of user experience across the organization. You will collaborate with cross-functional partners to translate business objectives into actionable research strategies, ensuring that every design decision is backed by robust data.

You will lead the development and execution of comprehensive design research strategies to address key business and customer challenges, synthesize findings to inform design

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in qualitative and quantitative design research methodologies, including usability testing and data analysis techniques.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage stakeholder engagement effectively across varied business environments.
• Strong expertise in user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design principles to inform research strategies and outcomes.
• Demonstrated skill in synthesizing research findings to influence product and technology decisions aligned with business objectives.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build consensus and present insights clearly to varied audiences.
• A strategic mindset with a track record of driving continuous improvement and innovation in research processes.
• Bachelor’s degree with 6+ years of experience in market research, business analysis, UX design research, OR 8+ years of equivalent experience in these areas.
• 3+ years of supervisory or leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• As a senior leader in design research, guide strategic direction of user experience across the organization.
• Lead development and execution of design research strategies addressing key business and customer challenges.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align research objectives and drive actionable insights.
• Oversee qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, ensuring best practices and ethics.
• Synthesize findings to inform design decisions and improve UX and interface outcomes.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement through clear communication and data-driven narratives.
• Guide usability testing and iteration processes to validate solutions and optimize interactions.
• Foster continuous improvement by evaluating research processes and integrating emerging methods.

Skills

Design research

Cross-functional leadership

UX/UI principles

Data-driven storytelling

Communication & stakeholder management

Strategic thinking

Mentorship / people leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in UI/UX design or related field

Master’s degree in UX design or related area (preferred)

Job description

MUST BE WILLING TO RELOCATE TO BENTONVILLE, AR

What You’ll Do

• As a senior leader in design research, you will play a critical role in guiding the strategic direction of user experience across the organization. You will collaborate with cross-functional partners to translate business objectives into actionable research strategies, ensuring that every design decision is backed by robust data.


• Lead the development and execution of comprehensive design research strategies to address key business and customer challenges.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to align research objectives and drive actionable insights.


• Oversee qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, ensuring adherence to best practices and ethical standards.


• Synthesize research findings to inform design decisions and improve user experience and interface outcomes.


• Facilitate stakeholder engagement and consensus-building through clear communication and data-driven narratives.


• Guide usability testing and iteration processes to validate design solutions and optimize customer interactions.


• Foster continuous improvement by evaluating research processes and integrating emerging methods.

What You’ll Bring (Required Qualifications)

• Extensive experience in qualitative and quantitative design research methodologies, including usability testing and data analysis techniques.


• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage stakeholder engagement effectively across varied business environments.


• Strong expertise in user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design principles to inform research strategies and outcomes.


• Demonstrated skill in synthesizing research findings to influence product and technology decisions aligned with business objectives.


• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build consensus and present insights clearly to varied audiences.


• A strategic mindset with a track record of driving continuous improvement and innovation in research processes.


• Bachelor’s degree in UI/UX design, graphic design, visual communication, product design, computer science, information technology, or a related field with 6+ years of experience in market research, business analysis, UX design research, OR 8+ years of equivalent experience in these areas.


• 3+ years of supervisory or leadership experience.

Preferred Qualifications (Nice-to-Have)

• Master’s degree in UI/UX Design, Interactive and Visual Design, Product Design, or a related area.


• Experience driving product development within design research, market research, or business analysis.


• Industry experience in retail, supply chain, eCommerce, or healthcare.


• Relevant research or design certifications (e.g., IDEOU – Foundations in Design Thinking Certificate).


• Knowledge of creating inclusive digital experiences, including implementing Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 AA standards and assistive technologies.