Consultant

Lead User Researcher Details: Role title: Lead User Researcher Location: Flexible (Remote, with options to work from offices in Reading and Leeds. You may be required to work part-time from client offices.) Summary: Mastek is seeking a Lead User Researcher to join our dynamic and growing User-Centred Design practice. This role involves leading impactful projects for clients across the public and private sectors, applying user-centred methods in agile environments, and collaborating with a diverse range of stakeholders. As a Lead, you will drive the development of our UCD strategy, support the growth of the community, line manage and mentor junior team members and contribute to business development. Key responsibilities: User-centred design Lead, scope and deliver components of end-to-end user research activities in a variety of programme contexts Recommend and execute appropriate user research activities based on project needs Create and maintain phase-appropriate user research deliverables Clearly articulate project problems, scopes, and success criteria to diverse audiences through compelling communication Respond to challenges, supporting the team to reach a resolution Support clients through all phases of the design process, from ideation to implementation Stakeholder management Effectively communicate with stakeholders within your client team, ensuring alignment and buy-in, being seen by the client project team and senior client stakeholders as experienced in your profession and in UCD Upskill and educate stakeholders and colleagues on user-centred design approaches and methods, and agile approaches to transformation and delivery Be commercially aware, looking for new opportunities to deliver for the client or identifying opportunities for cross-selling services Proactively address blockers or risks within the delivery for the team, working closely with the delivery manager (or project lead) to resolve these and keeping accurate documentation Act as a troubleshooter, managing ambiguity and navigating organizational complexities Business development Identify and pursue new opportunities with existing and new clients Shaping and articulating persuasive business proposals Lead on applying UCD and agile approaches to bids for transformation projects, ensuring alignment with client needs and expectations Community Development: Contribute to the evolution of Mastek’s user-centred design and consulting strategy Developing propositions and ‘points of view’ for applying design thinking approaches in new markets and clients Support the development of propositions and ‘points of view’ for applying design thinking approaches in new markets and clients Lead on the development of the community, applying Design Operations principles Requirements: Experience: Demonstratable relevant user research or UCD experience within agile teams and complex programmes Demonstrated application of user research methods and tools Proven experience in conducting user research and translating findings into actionable insights Experience in consultancy Mentoring experience of UCD/research teams Familiarity with GDS/NHS service standards and assessments and experience of running Discoveries to GDS/NHS Service Standard Sector experience in healthcare is a bonus Skills: Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to gain buy-in for approach Strong facilitation skills for both remote and in-person workshops, meetings and research sessions Ability to manage complex, ambiguous projects and organizational dynamics Skills and experience in related disciplines such as service design, and content/communication design are a plus Benefits: Competitive salary with an annual performance-related bonus. Training budget for professional growth. Choice of MacBook or Windows laptop with necessary software. Cycle to Work scheme. Flexible working structure (remote or hybrid options). Pension contributions and life insurance. Private healthcare. Opportunities to work on diverse projects across public and private sectors. About Mastek: Mastek is an international digital consultancy with offices in the UK, Europe, US, and India. We build impactful solutions for government and private clients like the NHS, Ministry of Defence, Kellogg’s, and Morrisons. Our User-Centred Design practice is a newer part of a company with a 42-year heritage. This offers a start-up atmosphere within a larger company, and numerous opportunities for professional development. You will work alongside delivery teams and see your work come to life through the deployment of services and products. Join us to work on innovative projects, collaborate with talented teams, and make a real impact. Ready to Apply? If you are passionate about user research and meet the above criteria, we would love to hear from you. We welcome diverse skills and experiences, so please reach out even if you don’t meet all the exact criteria. Apply today to join our exciting journey!