Head of User Research

Role: Head of Research

Location: Santa Clara, CA (Onsite)

Duration: Full Time

Role Overview:

As the inaugural Head of User Research , you will design the research infrastructure for our cutting-edge AI products. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, your mission is to decode and foresee customer needs, weaving these insights into our product, business, and design strategies. Your leadership will cultivate an environment of empathy, innovation, and significant impact, seamlessly integrating human experiences with AI technology. This pivotal role is key to guiding AI product innovation, ensuring our solutions are firmly anchored in user insights and empathy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define and promote the vision and strategy for inaugural Research & Insights organization.
• Develop and communicate a clear vision for this new org, including the establishment of research strategies, OKRs, and roadmaps.
• Assemble a world-class research team, fostering a culture of curiosity, empathy, and rigor.
• Oversee critical research initiatives, collaborating with various partners and research firms worldwide.
• As a foundational member of the organization, play a versatile role by forging strong partnerships with the Product, Design, and Business units to ensure that cohesive insights fuel innovation and customer engagement.
• Advocate for user insights, employing a mix of quantitative and qualitative research methods to shape product strategies and organizational decisions.
• Launch research programs that centralize the customer in our strategic endeavors, using a wide range of research methodologies.
• Elevate the customer's voice through compelling storytelling and empathetic communication, promoting a culture of customer-centricity throughout the company.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 15 years of user research experience, showcasing a portfolio filled with impactful insights and strategic contributions.
• Minimum of 5 years in a leadership position, proven success in building and leading high-performance research teams.
• Adept in various qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, with a knack for applying findings effectively.
• Some familiarity with AI/ML landscapes, preferably with experience in creating AI-driven consumer products.
• Solid understanding of user research methods (both qualitative and quantitative), UX/product design principles, and marketing strategies.
• Exceptional skill in managing ambiguity, adapting to organizational changes, and influencing across diverse leadership styles.
• A strong proponent of diversity, with experience in global research and managing international vendors.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Direct experience in developing AI tools or products, showcasing a talent for merging technical innovation with user needs.