We are seeking a highly motivated professional to join our team in this pivotal role, which is instrumental in driving our organizational objectives forward. The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, along with a minimum of three years of hands-on experience in a related capacity. Strong analytical skills, exceptional communication abilities, and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for success in this position. Key responsibilities include overseeing project execution, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring adherence to company policies and industry standards. Additionally, the role demands proficiency in data analysis tools and the capacity to develop strategic recommendations to enhance operational efficiency.
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—from initial study design through to the delivery of actionable insights—and collaborate closely with senior researchers and cross-functional stakeholders. Your work will involve conducting authentic research on tangible products that directly impact the financial well-being of real customers, who rely on functional and meaningful experiences to thrive.
This hybrid position requires on-site work at our offices in Kenya, where you will collaborate with a cross-functional team of professionals spanning our UK, Europe, and Africa markets. Reporting directly to the Research Operations Lead, you will contribute to key initiatives alongside colleagues from diverse backgrounds and geographic locations.
Why this Role is Different
In this role, you won’t be confined to a purely supporting capacity; instead, you’ll engage directly with groundbreaking products designed for first-time smartphone users, first-time borrowers, and first-time digital finance customers spanning five distinct markets. The challenges you’ll tackle are inherently intricate, the impact of your work is immediate and meaningful, and the team upholds an unwavering commitment to excellence and precision.
What You’ll be doing
Convene structured usability assessments, guided interviews, and targeted surveys, overseeing end-to-end fieldwork coordination for both virtual and in-person engagements while guaranteeing optimal session configurations to secure reliable, high-quality data from initiation.
Coding and synthesising qualitative data using defined frameworks — producing affinity maps, insight lists, and structured reports that translate findings into clear, actionable outputs for your immediate team and stakeholders.
Contributing to collaborative research methodologies within the team, identifying ambiguities in briefs, and utilizing AI-powered tools—such as Claude and Notion AI—while exercising discernment to determine when human review is necessary for the output.
What You’ll bring
Proven track record in UX research execution, encompassing moderated usability testing, semi-structured interviews, and survey design, coupled with strategic insight into selecting and applying the most appropriate methods for specific research objectives.
Demonstrates a strong track record of proficiency in handling qualitative data, including the systematic coding of responses, discerning underlying patterns, and developing synthesis outputs such as affinity maps and insight lists through a disciplined, methodical process.
Proficiency in DAKOTA’s operational markets or the broader landscape of first-time digital financial services users, coupled with a strong enthusiasm for addressing the associated usability challenges.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
