We are seeking a highly motivated professional to join our team in the capacity of [Job Title]. This position is responsible for overseeing key operational functions, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, and driving project execution with precision. The ideal candidate will possess a minimum of [X] years of relevant experience in [specific field/industry], along with a proven track record in [relevant skills, e.g., strategic planning, team leadership, or technical expertise]. Proficiency in [specific tools, software, or methodologies] is required, and familiarity with [industry-specific standards or regulations] is highly advantageous. Key responsibilities include [list of duties, e.g., managing cross-functional teams, analyzing performance metrics, or developing innovative solutions], with a strong emphasis on delivering measurable results in a fast-paced environment. Strong communication skills, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement are essential for success in this role.
This role is an entry-to-mid-level research position within DAKOTA’s Customer Intelligence (CI) team. Serving as a CI Research Associate, you will contribute to comprehensive UX and product research initiatives, overseeing projects from initial study design to the final delivery of insights. Collaboration with senior researchers and cross-functional teams will be integral to your responsibilities. The position involves conducting authentic research on tangible products for actual customers, whose financial well-being relies on seamless, functional experiences.
This hybrid position requires on-site work from our Kenya offices, where you will collaborate with colleagues from our varied markets and locations spanning the UK, Europe, and Africa. Reporting directly to the Research Operations Lead, you will function as an integral part of the team.
Why this Role is Different
Unlike many research associate positions that confine individuals to perpetual support roles, this position involves developing groundbreaking products tailored for first-time smartphone users, first-time borrowers, and first-time digital finance customers across five distinct markets. The research challenges are multifaceted, the impact is immediate and significant, and the team prioritizes meticulous execution.
What You’ll be doing
Convene and facilitate moderated usability tests, semi-structured interviews, and surveys while overseeing fieldwork logistics comprehensively—whether conducted remotely or in person—to establish optimal conditions for collecting high-quality data from the outset.
You will apply established frameworks to code and synthesize qualitative data, transforming it into structured deliverables such as affinity maps, insight lists, and comprehensive reports designed to distill complex findings into clear, actionable insights for your team and stakeholders.
Contributing to team research processes, identifying ambiguities in briefs, and leveraging AI-assisted tools—such as Claude and Notion AI—while exercising discernment to determine when human oversight is necessary for the output.
What You’ll bring
Experienced in executing UX research methodologies such as moderated usability testing, semi-structured interviewing, and survey design, with a discerning ability to select the most appropriate techniques based on contextual needs and objectives.
Demonstrates a strong proficiency in analyzing qualitative data, including systematically coding responses, discerning recurring patterns, and developing synthesis deliverables such as affinity maps and insight lists through a disciplined, methodical process.
Possesses a solid understanding of DAKOTA’s target markets or the broader landscape of first-time digital financial services users, coupled with a strong interest in addressing the usability challenges inherent in this domain.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
