Lead UX Researcher

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Hybrid work model

Professional development (conferences)

Team events

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Lead UX Researcher to drive user research across our fintech platforms. You will lead studies, synthesize insights, and influence product strategy with cross-functional partners in a hybrid Sandton-based role.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in UX research, advanced degrees, and strong analytical and communication skills to advocate for user needs across design and engineering teams.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of UX research experience leading studies that influence product decisions.
• Master’s degree or PhD in a related field or equivalent practical experience.
• Strong qualitative and quantitative methods knowledge and application.
• Exceptional communication and ability to influence cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and analysis of user research studies (generative and evaluative).
• Define objectives and methodologies aligned with product strategy and goals.
• Synthesize findings into actionable insights for product, design, and eng teams.
• Advocate for user needs throughout the product lifecycle and mentor junior researchers.
• Collaborate with product and design to identify key research questions and areas to explore.
• Maintain a centralized research repository of insights and findings.
• Present findings to stakeholders at all levels and stay current with best practices.

Skills

UX research

Leadership

Stakeholder influence

Qualitative research

Quantitative research

Education

Master’s/PhD in HCI/psych/soc/anthro

Tools

UserTesting.com

Qualtrics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering fintech company located in the vibrant business district of Sandton, Gauteng, ZA, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead UX Researcher. This pivotal role involves leading user research initiatives to deeply understand user needs, behaviors, and motivations, translating these insights into actionable recommendations that drive product strategy and design excellence. You will be instrumental in shaping the user experience of our innovative financial platforms, ensuring they are intuitive, accessible, and meet the evolving demands of our diverse customer base. The ideal candidate possesses a strong command of various research methodologies, exceptional analytical skills, and the ability to influence cross-functional teams, including product, design, and engineering. This hybrid role allows for a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, based within our modern Sandton headquarters. We are committed to fostering a culture of empathy and user advocacy, making this a fantastic opportunity for a passionate researcher looking to make a significant impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and analysis of user research studies, including generative and evaluative methods (e.g., interviews, surveys, usability testing, card sorting).
• Define research objectives and methodologies aligned with product strategy and business goals.
• Synthesize research findings into compelling insights and actionable recommendations for product, design, and engineering teams.
• Advocate for user needs and champion a user-centered approach throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Mentor and guide junior UX researchers, fostering their professional growth.
• Collaborate with product managers and designers to identify key research questions and areas of exploration.
• Develop and maintain a research repository of insights and findings.
• Present research findings to stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Stay current with the latest trends and best practices in UX research and related fields.

Requirements

• Extensive experience (5+ years) in UX research, with a proven track record of leading research initiatives and influencing product decisions.
• Master’s degree or PhD in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Deep understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and their appropriate application.
• Proficiency with research tools and platforms (e.g., UserTesting.com, Qualtrics, survey tools).
• Excellent analytical, synthesis, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Experience leading and mentoring research teams is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with the fintech industry is a plus.
• Located in or willing to work a hybrid model from Sandton, Gauteng, ZA.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, generous retirement contributions, and performance-based bonuses.
• Employees have access to a state-of-the-art office in Sandton and can enjoy professional development opportunities, including conference attendance and specialized training.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility, while regular team events foster a strong sense of community.
• We value work-life balance and offer ample paid time off.
• Join a dynamic team at the forefront of financial technology, where your research expertise will directly shape the future of our products.