We are seeking a highly motivated professional to join our team in a strategic capacity, focusing on delivering impactful results. The ideal candidate will possess a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, coupled with a proven track record in [specific industry/function, if applicable]. This role demands exceptional analytical skills, strong problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Key responsibilities include [list 1-2 key responsibilities, if time allows], while ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Proficiency in [specific tools, software, or methodologies] is required, and the ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization is essential. The successful applicant will demonstrate adaptability, a commitment to continuous improvement, and a passion for driving innovation within their field.
This entry-to-mid-level research role is situated within DAKOTA’s Customer Intelligence (CI) team. Serving as a CI Research Associate, you will contribute to comprehensive UX and product research initiatives, overseeing each phase from study design to insight dissemination while collaborating with senior researchers and cross-functional stakeholders. Your work will involve conducting authentic research on tangible products for real customers, whose financial well-being hinges on seamless, functional experiences.
As a hybrid professional in this role, you will operate from our offices in Kenya while collaborating with colleagues from our varied markets and locations spanning the UK, Europe, and Africa. Reporting directly to the Research Operations Lead, you will be responsible for seamless integration into cross-regional teams.
This position offers a distinctive opportunity that sets it apart from typical roles in the industry. The role stands out due to its unique combination of challenges and growth potential, providing avenues for both personal and professional development. Unlike standard positions, it demands a blend of specialized skills and adaptability, ensuring that the right candidate will thrive in a dynamic environment. The responsibilities are crafted to push boundaries, encouraging innovative thinking while addressing critical business needs. Additionally, the role fosters collaboration across teams, creating a platform for meaningful contributions and lasting impact.
Here, you won’t remain indefinitely in a support capacity; instead, you’ll contribute to groundbreaking products designed for first-time smartphone users, first-time borrowers, and first-time digital finance customers across five distinct markets. The research challenges are multifaceted, the outcomes carry real-world impact, and the team prioritizes excellence in execution.
What You’ll be doing
Convene moderated usability tests, semi-structured interviews, and surveys while overseeing the full spectrum of fieldwork logistics—spanning both remote and in-person sessions—and implementing measures to ensure optimal data collection quality from the outset.
You will code and synthesize qualitative data by applying established frameworks, creating affinity maps, compiling insight lists, and developing structured reports that effectively convert findings into clear, actionable insights for your immediate team and key stakeholders.
Contributing to team research practices, identifying ambiguities in briefs by asking clarifying questions, and utilizing AI-powered tools—such as Claude and Notion AI—with discernment to determine when human review is necessary for the output.
What You’ll bring
Experienced in leading UX research initiatives, including moderated usability testing, semi-structured interviews, and survey design, with a keen ability to select the most appropriate methods for specific research objectives.
Demonstrates expertise in handling qualitative data, including coding responses, detecting recurring patterns, and creating synthesis deliverables such as affinity maps and insight lists through a disciplined, systematic methodology.
Must possess 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 that domain.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
