Lead User Experience (UX) Researcher

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Professional development budget

Collaborative work environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA, seeks a Lead UX Researcher to champion user-centric design across the product lifecycle. This on-site role leads research initiatives, mentoring juniors, and translating insights into actionable recommendations that boost usability and user satisfaction.

You will plan, execute, analyze qualitative and quantitative studies, develop methodologies, collaborate with product, design and engineering, present findings, and stay ahead of UX trends while

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a related field.
• 6+ years of UX research experience with digital products.
• Proven ability to lead research programs and mentor juniors.
• Strong synthesis of insights into actionable design recommendations.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and analysis of qualitative and quantitative UX studies.
• Develop and refine methodologies including interviews, surveys, usability testing.
• Translate findings into clear insights for product and design teams.
• Collaborate with PM, design, and engineering to prioritize research.
• Present findings to stakeholders and mentor junior researchers.
• Stay current with UX research trends and advocate for users.

Skills

UX research

Leadership

Stakeholder comms

Mixed methods

Mentoring

Education

Master's or PhD in HCI / Psychology / Sociology / Anthropology

Tools

UserTesting

Qualtrics

SurveyMonkey

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent digital solutions provider in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA, is seeking a Lead User Experience (UX) Researcher to champion user-centric design principles across their product development lifecycle. This vital, on-site role is central to understanding user needs, behaviors, and motivations, translating these insights into actionable recommendations that enhance product usability and overall user satisfaction. You will lead research initiatives, from planning and execution to analysis and reporting, working closely with design, product management, and engineering teams. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the user experience of innovative digital products and services that impact a wide audience. You will be responsible for establishing and refining research methodologies, mentoring junior researchers, and ensuring that user feedback is a core driver of product strategy in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and analysis of qualitative and quantitative UX research studies.
• Develop and refine research methodologies, including user interviews, surveys, usability testing, card sorting, and persona development.
• Translate research findings into clear, actionable insights and recommendations for product and design teams.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (product management, design, engineering) to identify research needs and prioritize projects.
• Conduct competitive analysis and heuristic evaluations to identify UX opportunities and pain points.
• Present research findings and recommendations to stakeholders at various levels of the organization.
• Mentor and guide junior UX researchers, fostering their professional development.
• Stay current with UX research best practices, emerging technologies, and industry trends.
• Advocate for the user throughout the product development process.
• Manage research project timelines and resources effectively.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in UX research, with a proven track record of conducting impactful research for digital products.
• Expertise in a variety of research methods, both qualitative and quantitative.
• Proficiency in using research tools and platforms (e.g., UserTesting.com, Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to synthesize complex data into clear insights.
• Strong presentation and communication skills, with the ability to articulate research findings to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including mentoring junior researchers.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Strong understanding of the product development lifecycle.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with extensive experience and leadership responsibilities.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Opportunity to lead UX research for impactful digital products.
• Professional development budget for conferences and training.
• A collaborative and user-focused work environment.
• Direct influence on product strategy and user satisfaction in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA.