Responsible for executing a comprehensive set of duties to drive organizational success, this position demands a dynamic blend of strategic thinking and hands-on execution. Key responsibilities include overseeing day-to-day operations, fostering team collaboration, and ensuring alignment with overarching business objectives. The ideal candidate must possess strong analytical skills, exceptional communication abilities, and a minimum of five years of relevant experience in a similar capacity. Additionally, proficiency in industry-specific software and tools is required, along with the capacity to adapt to evolving challenges and priorities.
This role is an entry-to-mid-level research position within DAKOTA’s Customer Intelligence (CI) team. As a CI Research Associate, you will contribute to the full spectrum of UX and product research, from initial study design to the final delivery of insights, collaborating closely with senior researchers and cross-functional colleagues. You will conduct meaningful research on tangible products for actual customers, whose financial well-being hinges on seamless and effective experiences.
This hybrid position requires on-site work at our Kenya office, where you will collaborate with a multicultural team of colleagues spanning our operations in the UK, Europe, and Africa. You will report directly to the Research Operations Lead.
This position stands out due to its unique combination of challenges and opportunities, distinguishing it from conventional roles in the field. Unlike standard positions that may focus solely on execution, this role demands strategic thinking and innovation to drive meaningful impact. It requires a candidate who not only meets the essential qualifications but also brings a proactive mindset to navigate complex scenarios. The responsibilities extend beyond routine tasks, encompassing leadership in key initiatives and collaboration across multiple stakeholders. Furthermore, the role offers significant potential for professional growth, making it an ideal fit for individuals seeking to make a lasting contribution in a dynamic environment.
Unlike traditional research associate positions that often confine professionals to long-term support roles, this role immerses you in groundbreaking work—developing solutions for first-time smartphone users, first-time borrowers, and first-time digital finance customers across five distinct markets. The challenges are multifaceted, the impact is immediate, and the team upholds a culture of meticulous craftsmanship.
What You’ll be doing
Convene moderated usability tests, semi-structured interviews, and surveys while overseeing the complete logistical coordination of fieldwork—whether executed remotely or in person—with meticulous attention to session preparation to ensure the integrity of data collection from the outset.
Crafting qualitative data into structured insights involves applying predefined frameworks to organize and analyze information, resulting in the development of affinity maps, lists of key findings, and comprehensive reports. These deliverables are designed to distill complex data into clear, actionable insights that effectively communicate outcomes to both your immediate team and relevant stakeholders.
Contribute to team research routines by posing thoughtful questions when briefs lack clarity, and leverage AI-assisted tools—such as Claude and Notion AI—with discernment to determine when outputs require human review.
What You’ll bring
Experienced professionals skilled in executing UX research methodologies—such as moderated usability testing, semi-structured interviews, and survey design—should demonstrate a clear grasp of method selection based on project-specific needs and research objectives.
Demonstrates a strong track record in handling qualitative data, including the ability to systematically code responses, recognize recurring patterns, and develop synthesis deliverables—such as affinity maps and insight lists—through a disciplined, organized methodology.
Proven understanding of DAKOTA’s target markets or the broader landscape of first-time digital financial services consumers, along with a strong interest in addressing the unique usability challenges inherent in this sector.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
