User Researcher - Newcastle

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: User Researcher

Company: Accenture

Location: Newcastle, United Kingdom

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: User Experience (UX) Research / Design Operations

Date Posted: February 24, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (Est. 2-5 Years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the planning, execution, and analysis of user research for digital client services and products, ensuring a strong user-centric approach in development.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product owners, service managers, UX designers, and developers, to translate user insights into actionable requirements and influence product direction.

• Champion the value of user-centered design (UCD) principles and advocate for users within Agile delivery teams and stakeholder discussions.

• Contribute to the creation of user journeys, personas, and other UX artifacts, leveraging research findings to inform design and business decisions.

• Work across a variety of clients and industries, gaining exposure to diverse digital transformation projects and enhancing your UX research expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core role is User Researcher, the emphasis on Agile delivery, stakeholder collaboration, and influencing product direction positions this role within the broader GTM (Go-To-Market) and Operations framework by ensuring the products and services developed are aligned with user needs, thus driving adoption and revenue. The requirement to work with GDS (Government Digital Service) standards suggests a focus on robust, user-friendly, and accessible digital solutions, which is a critical component of successful GTM strategies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Plan, recruit participants for, and conduct user research sessions (remote and face-to-face) to gather qualitative and quantitative data on user behaviors, needs, and pain points.

• Analyze research findings, synthesize data, and produce comprehensive reports and presentations that clearly articulate insights and recommendations to project teams and stakeholders.

• Develop research strategies in collaboration with product owners and service managers, ensuring alignment with project goals and business objectives.

• Convert user research concepts and findings into high-quality stimulus materials (e.g., user journey maps, personas, scenarios) to facilitate understanding and buy-in.

• Work closely with UX designers to iterate on prototypes based on user feedback and with developers to ensure user insights are integrated into the final product.

• Actively participate in Agile Scrum ceremonies, contributing UX research perspectives to sprint planning, reviews, and retrospectives.

• Identify and address client issues related to user experience, acting as a vocal advocate for the end-user throughout the design and development lifecycle.

• Share knowledge, learn new skills, and contribute to the continuous improvement of UX and Design practices within the Accenture team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a proactive approach to research, emphasizing not just data collection but also its strategic application. The integration into Agile teams and the requirement to influence product direction are key operational aspects of a successful UX function within a client-facing consulting environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational requirements are listed, but a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Psychology, Sociology, Design, Information Science, or a related field is typically expected for User Researchers.

Experience: Relevant professional experience as a User Researcher is essential. A demonstrated ability to work within Agile Scrum teams is also a key requirement.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience as a User Researcher, with a strong understanding of various qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.

• Proficiency in planning, conducting, and analyzing user research sessions (e.g., interviews, usability testing, surveys, contextual inquiries).

• Experience working within an Agile Scrum team environment, contributing to iterative development cycles.

• Strong advocacy skills for users, effectively communicating user needs and perspectives to team members and stakeholders.

• Ability to translate complex user data and insights into clear, actionable requirements for design and development.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working with GDS (Government Digital Service) standards and best practices, particularly in relation to accessibility and usability.

• A strong portfolio showcasing a range of UX research and design deliverables, including user journeys, personas, user testing results, and UI design examples.

• Experience with prototyping tools and techniques.

• Familiarity with user interface (UI) design principles.

• Experience with data analysis tools and techniques for synthesizing research findings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio is critical for UX roles. The "Set yourself apart" section specifically calls for examples of user journeys, personas, user research, prototyping, user testing, and UI design, which are standard for a User Researcher role and directly contribute to demonstrating practical application of skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio is required to showcase practical application of UX research and design skills.

• The portfolio should include demonstrable examples of User Journeys, illustrating the end-to-end user experience.

• Inclusion of well-defined Personas, representing key user segments and their characteristics, is expected.

• Detailed case studies of User Research projects, outlining methodologies, findings, and impact, are crucial.

• Examples of Prototyping work, demonstrating the ability to translate insights into interactive designs, should be present.

• Evidence of User Testing, including methodology, participant feedback, and resulting design iterations, is a key requirement.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to demonstrate an understanding of research process documentation, including clear methodology descriptions, participant recruitment strategies, and data analysis frameworks.

• The ability to document findings and recommendations in a structured, stakeholder-friendly format is essential.

• Experience in contributing to or utilizing process documentation within an Agile framework, such as sprint documentation or backlog refinement, will be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirement is a direct indicator of how the company assesses practical skills and ability to deliver tangible results in UX research. It serves as a critical component of the evaluation process, allowing candidates to visually demonstrate their expertise in user-centric design methodologies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a User Researcher with an estimated 2-5 years of experience in the UK, specifically in a major city like Newcastle, the estimated salary range is £40,000 - £60,000 per annum.

📝 Enhancement Note: This estimate is derived from research of similar User Researcher roles in the UK market, considering the mid-level experience indicated (2-5 years) and the location (Newcastle). Accenture, being a large global consulting firm, typically offers competitive compensation packages, which may include performance-based bonuses in addition to the base salary. Factors such as specific client projects and the exact scope of responsibilities can influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• 25 days’ vacation per year, providing ample time for rest and personal pursuits.

• Private medical insurance, ensuring access to healthcare services.

• 3 extra days leave per year for charitable work of your choice, supporting community engagement and personal values.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses (typical for consulting roles).

• Access to Accenture's extensive learning and development resources.

Working Hours:

The role is designated as FULL_TIME. While specific daily hours are not detailed, a standard professional work week of approximately 40 hours is typical for such roles. The hybrid nature of the role requires 3 days per week in the Newcastle office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of "Flexibility and mobility are required to deliver this role" suggests that while a hybrid model is in place, there may be client-specific needs for occasional on-site work or travel, which is common in consulting.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology & Professional Services. Accenture operates at the intersection of technology, consulting, and operations, providing a broad range of services to clients across numerous industries.

Company Size: Accenture is a global leader with approximately 791,000 employees worldwide, operating in over 120 countries. This signifies a large, established, and resource-rich organization.

Founded: Accenture has a long history, evolving from its origins in Arthur Andersen & Co. in 1953. This deep-rooted presence indicates stability and extensive experience in the professional services market.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of a close-knit UX and Design team within Accenture, likely comprising specialists in various UX disciplines.

• This team collaborates closely with Agile delivery teams, product owners, service managers, and client-side stakeholders.

Methodology:

• Accenture emphasizes a data-driven approach, leveraging technology and analytics to drive client outcomes.

• User-centered design is a core methodology, integrated into their digital product and service development processes.

• Agile methodologies are widely adopted for project delivery, ensuring flexibility and iterative progress.

• Focus on creating tangible value through digital transformation, operational optimization, and revenue acceleration.

Company Website: www.accenture.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Accenture's global scale and diverse client base mean that operations roles here are often focused on scalable processes and best practices that can be applied across various engagements. The emphasis on "360° value" suggests a holistic approach to delivering impact for clients and stakeholders.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This User Researcher role is positioned at a mid-level, typically requiring 2-5 years of dedicated experience. It involves leading research initiatives for specific projects, requiring independent work and the ability to influence junior team members and stakeholders.

Reporting Structure: The User Researcher will likely report to a UX Design Lead or Manager within Accenture's consulting practice. They will work within project-specific Agile teams, collaborating directly with Product Owners, Service Managers, Designers, and Developers, as well as client-side counterparts.

Operations Impact: The User Researcher's primary impact is on the successful design and adoption of client digital products and services. By ensuring these offerings meet user needs, the role directly contributes to client satisfaction, user engagement, reduced support costs, and ultimately, enhanced revenue generation and operational efficiency for clients.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in various research methodologies, gain exposure to GDS standards, and develop skills in influencing stakeholder decisions within a consulting context.

• Leadership Development: Potential to lead research efforts on larger or more complex client projects, mentor junior researchers, and contribute to the development of Accenture's UX practice.

• Cross-Functional Expertise: Gain broader understanding of the entire digital product lifecycle, from strategy and design to development and operations, by working closely with other Agile team members and client business units.

• Industry Exposure: Work across diverse industries, building a broad knowledge base and adaptability in understanding different market needs and user behaviors.

📝 Enhancement Note: Accenture's structure often provides clear pathways for career progression, moving from individual contributor to team lead and management roles. The focus on client delivery means that demonstrable impact and successful project outcomes are key drivers for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is hybrid, requiring 3 days per week at the Newcastle Cobalt Business Park office. This suggests a professional, modern office environment designed for collaboration and client engagement.

Office Location(s): Newcastle, Cobalt Business Park Bldg 9C, United Kingdom. This is a well-established business park, likely offering good transport links and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment will support collaborative work with UX/Design teams and Agile project teams.

• Access to necessary tools and technology for research, design, and communication will be provided.

• Opportunities for informal and formal knowledge sharing with colleagues, fostering a learning culture.

• The hybrid model allows for focused individual work at home and collaborative, team-based work in the office.

Work Schedule: Full-time, with a typical 40-hour work week. The hybrid arrangement requires specific days in the office, offering a structured yet flexible work pattern.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 3 days in the office underscores Accenture's commitment to fostering in-person collaboration and team cohesion, which is often crucial for complex problem-solving and client relationship building in a consulting firm.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess suitability against the core requirements.

• First Interview: Likely a competency-based interview focusing on your experience as a User Researcher, your understanding of UX methodologies, and your ability to work in Agile environments. Expect questions about your approach to user advocacy and stakeholder management.

• Portfolio Review/Presentation: You will be asked to present examples from your portfolio, discussing your process, the challenges you faced, and the impact of your work. This is a critical stage to demonstrate practical skills and strategic thinking.

• Second/Final Interview: May involve a more in-depth discussion with senior team members or hiring managers, potentially including a practical exercise or case study. This stage will assess cultural fit and strategic alignment with Accenture's values and client delivery expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 strong projects that best demonstrate your skills across the required areas (User Journeys, Personas, Research, Prototyping, Testing, UI Design).

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role and process, the methodologies used, the key insights, the solutions developed, and the measurable impact or outcomes.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your thought process, how you adapted your approach, and how you collaborated with teams and stakeholders.

• Showcase User Advocacy: Demonstrate how you championed user needs and influenced design and business decisions.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to show the tangible results of your research (e.g., improved conversion rates, reduced task completion times, increased user satisfaction).

Challenge Preparation:

• Agile & User-Centred Design: Be prepared to discuss how you integrate user research into Agile workflows and how you advocate for UCD principles within that framework.

• Stakeholder Management: Practice articulating research findings and recommendations clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, including non-technical stakeholders.

• GDS Standards: If you have GDS experience, be ready to discuss its practical application. If not, understand its core principles (e.g., user needs, iterative development, accessibility) and how they align with good UX practice.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and presentation highlights that Accenture values demonstrable skills and the ability to articulate one's contribution. Preparing a compelling narrative around your projects is key to success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• User Research Platforms: Tools for conducting remote usability testing, surveys, and participant recruitment (e.g., UserTesting.com, Lookback, Maze, Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey).

• Prototyping Tools: Software for creating interactive prototypes (e.g., Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, InVision).

• Design Collaboration Tools: Platforms for team collaboration on design projects (e.g., Miro, Mural for brainstorming and wireframing).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Synthesis Tools: Software for organizing and analyzing qualitative data (e.g., Dovetail, NVivo).

• Presentation Software: Standard tools for creating reports and presentations (e.g., PowerPoint, Google Slides).

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, familiarity with how user insights can inform CRM strategies or customer journey mapping within CRM platforms may be beneficial.

• Understanding of how user research feeds into the broader GTM and customer experience lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific tools are not listed, but the description of responsibilities implies proficiency in common UX research and design software. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with a range of industry-standard tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: A strong commitment to delivering value and excellent service to clients, understanding their business needs and challenges.

• Innovation & Technology: Embracing new technologies and approaches to solve client problems and drive digital transformation.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing a collective approach to problem-solving, where diverse perspectives are shared and leveraged.

• Excellence & Quality: Striving for high standards in all deliverables, with a focus on data-driven insights and measurable impact.

• User Advocacy: A core principle of always putting the end-user at the center of design and development efforts.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, working within cross-functional Agile teams and engaging with various client stakeholders.

• Emphasis on open communication, knowledge sharing, and constructive feedback to drive continuous improvement.

• A proactive approach to identifying and solving problems, often through collaborative workshops and discussions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Accenture's culture is often characterized by a professional, results-oriented environment that values continuous learning and client success. The emphasis on collaboration is key, given the project-based nature of consulting work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing User Needs with Business/Technical Constraints: Regularly navigating the tension between ideal user experiences and project limitations (budget, timeline, technology).

• Influencing Stakeholders: Effectively communicating research findings and advocating for user needs to stakeholders with potentially different priorities or perspectives.

• Working Across Diverse Clients/Industries: Adapting research methodologies and insights to unique client contexts and user bases.

• Maintaining Pace in Agile Environments: Ensuring research activities keep pace with rapid development cycles without compromising quality.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to Accenture's extensive training programs for UX research, design, Agile methodologies, and specific industry domains.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced UX professionals and leaders within Accenture's global network.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant industry events and pursuing professional certifications.

• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Technology: Working with clients on digital transformation projects often involves leveraging new and emerging technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are common in consulting UX roles, requiring adaptability and strong communication skills. The growth opportunities are significant, leveraging Accenture's scale and investment in employee development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to advocate for a user need that conflicted with a business requirement. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Assesses advocacy, stakeholder management, and problem-solving.)

• "Walk me through a user research project from your portfolio. What was the objective, your methodology, key findings, and the impact on the product?" (Assesses research process, analytical skills, and ability to articulate impact.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Accenture and this specific User Researcher role?" (Assesses research into the company and role alignment.)

• "How do you stay updated on the latest UX research trends and best practices?" (Assesses commitment to continuous learning.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, use a framework like: Problem -> Your Role -> Research Process -> Key Insights -> Design Solutions -> Impact/Outcomes.

• Visuals: Use clear, concise visuals. Avoid dense text on slides. Let your verbal explanation provide the detail.

• Engagement: Be prepared for questions. Engage with the interviewers and treat it as a collaborative discussion.

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate how your research led to tangible improvements or informed critical decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing specific examples from your experience that align with these types of questions will be crucial. The portfolio presentation is a key opportunity to showcase your practical skills and thought process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Accenture careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight experience with user research methodologies, Agile environments, and stakeholder communication relevant to digital product development. Ensure your portfolio clearly showcases examples of user journeys, personas, research insights, and their impact.

• Resume Optimization: Emphasize keywords from the job description, such as "User Researcher," "User-Centred Design," "Agile Scrum," "GDS Standards," and specific research techniques you've employed. Quantify your achievements with metrics where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your research process and findings using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare a compelling narrative for your portfolio presentation, focusing on problem-solving and impact.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Accenture's services, values, and recent projects, particularly in the digital transformation and technology consulting space. Understand their approach to user-centric design and Agile delivery.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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