We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated professional to join our team in this pivotal role. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in [industry/field, if applicable], along with proven experience in [specific responsibilities or key functions]. Key qualifications include [required skills or certifications], and the ability to [critical competency]. This position demands meticulous attention to detail, exceptional problem-solving capabilities, and the capacity to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities will encompass [core duties], while also contributing to [team or organizational goals]. Collaboration and effective communication are essential, as the role involves interfacing with [stakeholders or departments]. The successful applicant will be expected to drive results, adapt to evolving challenges, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.
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 comprehensive UX and product research initiatives, overseeing each phase from study design to insight dissemination, while collaborating closely with senior researchers and cross-functional partners. You will conduct authentic research on tangible products for real customers whose financial well-being hinges on seamless, functional experiences.
This hybrid position entails working from our offices in Kenya while collaborating with a diverse team of colleagues from our various markets and locations spanning the UK, Europe, and Africa. You will report directly to the Research Operations Lead.
This position distinguishes itself through unique opportunities that set it apart from conventional roles. Unlike typical positions, this role offers specialized challenges and avenues for professional growth that are not widely available elsewhere. Candidates with a proven track record of adaptability and a passion for innovation will find this role particularly rewarding. The responsibilities are designed to leverage individual strengths while fostering collaboration and strategic thinking. Additionally, the role provides exposure to high-impact projects that can significantly enhance career trajectories.
This position offers more than a conventional research associate role, which often confines professionals to a supporting capacity. Instead, you’ll contribute to groundbreaking products designed for entirely new segments—first-time smartphone users, first-time borrowers, and first-time digital finance customers—spanning five distinct markets. The challenges are multifaceted, the impact is immediate, and the team prioritizes meticulous execution.
What You’ll be doing
Directing moderated usability tests, semi-structured interviews, and surveys—overseeing the entire fieldwork process, from planning to execution, for both remote and in-person sessions—while establishing optimal conditions for high-quality data collection from the outset.
Crafting and integrating qualitative data through established frameworks involves developing affinity maps, compiling insight lists, and designing structured reports. These outputs transform findings into precise, actionable insights tailored for your team and stakeholders.
Contributing to established team research protocols, proactively identifying ambiguities in briefs, and utilizing AI-assisted tools—such as Claude and Notion AI—with discernment to determine when human oversight is required for the output.
What You’ll bring
Skilled professionals should possess proven expertise in executing UX research methodologies, such as moderated usability testing, semi-structured interviewing, and survey design, coupled with a nuanced comprehension of selecting the most appropriate techniques for specific contexts and objectives.
Demonstrates strong proficiency in analyzing qualitative data by systematically coding responses, detecting recurring patterns, and developing synthesis artifacts such as affinity maps and insight lists through a disciplined, methodical process.
Possesses a solid understanding of DAKOTA’s operational markets or the broader landscape of first-time digital financial services consumers, accompanied by a strong interest in the unique usability challenges inherent to this demographic.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
