Senior UX Researcher

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX Researcher (d/f/m)

Company: DEPT®

Location: Zagreb, Croatia (Hybrid)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: User Experience Research / Product Development Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-03

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (5 days in office per month)

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer-centered decision-making by uncovering user needs, motivations, behaviors, and opportunities through strategic research initiatives.

• Collaborate closely with product managers, designers, and developers within cross-functional teams to shape the development of digital products and services.

• Design, execute, and synthesize a variety of user research studies, from exploratory discovery to concept validation and usability testing.

• Champion an evidence-based approach to product development, integrating journey mapping and experience frameworks into practical product work.

• Contribute to the evolution of research practices by refining methods, improving tooling, and fostering a strong research culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits at the intersection of UX Research and Product Operations, focusing on how research directly influences product strategy and development velocity. The emphasis on "Growth Invention" and "acting fast" suggests a need for researchers who can deliver actionable insights efficiently within an agile framework. The "Senior" title implies leadership in research methodology and mentorship.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and conduct a range of user research studies, including exploratory discovery, usability testing, concept validation, and ethnographic research.

• Frame critical research questions and facilitate problem-space exploration with product teams before solution ideation.

• Synthesize research findings into clear, actionable insights and present them effectively to product managers, designers, developers, and other stakeholders.

• Work collaboratively within agile, cross-functional teams to integrate user insights into the product development lifecycle.

• Develop and refine research standards, best practices, and tooling to scale research capabilities across multiple teams and projects.

• Advocate for a user-journey-driven and evidence-based product development methodology.

• Proactively identify opportunities to improve research processes, introduce new methods, and enhance the overall research practice.

• Contribute to building and maintaining a strong, collaborative research culture through knowledge sharing and continuous learning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of hands-on research execution and strategic influence. The role requires not only proficiency in research methodologies but also the ability to translate those findings into actionable product decisions and to mentor others in research best practices.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Design Research, or a related field is typically preferred for Senior UX Researcher roles. Equivalent practical experience will also be considered.

Experience: Several years (ideally 5-10 years, as inferred from "Senior" title and "several years" requirement) of dedicated experience in user research, with a strong preference for experience within agency settings and agile, product-focused environments.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in planning and conducting diverse user research studies (e.g., usability testing, in-depth interviews, surveys, concept validation, ethnographic studies, diary studies).

• Strong analytical and synthesis skills to translate raw research data into clear, compelling insights and recommendations.

• Proficiency in presenting research findings and insights to various stakeholders, including product managers, designers, engineers, and leadership.

• Experience working within agile development methodologies and cross-functional product teams.

• Familiarity with journey mapping, experience frameworks, and their application in product strategy.

• Excellent facilitation skills for user interviews, workshops, and research debriefs.

• Proactive and self-directed approach to managing research projects and driving research initiatives.

• Fluency in German and strong command of English (written and spoken). Preferred Skills:

• Experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods, including mixed-methods approaches.

• Knowledge of emerging technologies, particularly AI, and their user implications.

• Experience in mentoring junior researchers or leading research efforts.

• Familiarity with A/B testing and experimental design for product optimization.

• Experience with remote research tools and techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" designation and the emphasis on influencing product strategy suggest that candidates with a track record of leading research initiatives, mentoring others, and driving significant product impact will be highly valued. The German fluency requirement is a critical qualification for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of research projects demonstrating end-to-end research process ownership, from framing research questions to delivering actionable insights.

• Include detailed case studies that highlight problem definition, research methodology selection, execution, synthesis, and the tangible impact of research on product decisions and outcomes.

• Demonstrate proficiency in various research methods (e.g., usability testing, in-depth interviews, surveys, concept validation, exploratory research).

• Present clear examples of how research findings were translated into concrete product improvements or strategic shifts.

• Highlight experience with journey mapping, experience frameworks, and how these were integrated into product development. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and documenting research processes, standards, and best practices.

• Examples of how research insights were made accessible and actionable for product teams.

• Documentation illustrating the integration of research into agile workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior UX Researcher role, the portfolio is paramount. It should not only showcase research skills but also strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to influence product direction. The emphasis on "journey-driven product thinking" suggests a need for case studies that illustrate how research has informed or improved user journeys.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Senior UX Researchers in Zagreb, Croatia, with hybrid work arrangements and the specified experience level (5-10 years), a competitive annual salary range is estimated between €45,000 - €70,000 gross, depending on experience and specific qualifications.

Benefits:

• Transparent career development and pay structure.

• Flexible, hybrid working policy (requiring 5 days in the office per month).

• Rewarding, supportive, and healthy company culture.

• Supplemental and additional health insurance.

• Pension scheme (third pillar pension fund).

• Referral bonus program.

• Contribution to health and well-being through the OpenUp platform.

• Multisport programme participation.

• Opportunities for training, development, and certifications.

• Involvement in DEPT® Cares Month and other company-wide initiatives.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours are assumed, likely around 40 hours per week. While hybrid, the role requires a commitment to in-office collaboration for a portion of the month, allowing for focused work and team interaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on general market data for Croatia and the specified role and experience level. It is crucial for candidates to verify the exact compensation during the interview process. The benefits package is comprehensive, emphasizing employee well-being and professional growth, which is attractive for senior-level operations and research professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: DEPT® operates as a "Growth Invention" company, positioning itself at the intersection of technology and marketing. They specialize in creating digital products and services, focusing on innovation and rapid execution for ambitious brands. This context suggests a fast-paced, forward-thinking environment where user experience and data-driven insights are critical for client success.

Company Size: DEPT® is a large global organization, with thousands of employees worldwide. This scale implies access to extensive resources, diverse projects, and opportunities for international collaboration, but also a need for clear processes and efficient communication.

Founded: DEPT® has a history of growth and evolution, becoming a Certified B Corp® in 2021. This signifies a commitment to social and environmental responsibility alongside business objectives, suggesting a culture that values purpose and impact.

Team Structure:

• The UX Research team is likely integrated within cross-functional product teams, working closely with Product Managers, Designers, and Developers.

• As a Senior UX Researcher, you may lead research efforts for specific client projects or product areas, potentially mentoring junior researchers.

• Collaboration is key, with a strong emphasis on cross-functional partnership to ensure user insights are embedded throughout the product development lifecycle. Methodology:

• DEPT® emphasizes a "Growth Invention" methodology, suggesting a focus on agile execution, rapid iteration, and pioneering new solutions.

• User-centered design and evidence-based decision-making are core to their approach, making the Senior UX Researcher role pivotal.

• Research is expected to be hands-on, strategic, and directly tied to business outcomes and client growth.

Company Website: https://www.deptagency.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: DEPT®'s culture is defined by its "Growth Invention" ethos, valuing curiosity, speed, and impact. The B Corp certification indicates a strong ethical and sustainability focus. The "better together, relentlessly curious, and get sh*t done" values align with a proactive, collaborative, and results-oriented work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level UX Researcher role. It signifies a high degree of autonomy, expertise, and the ability to influence product strategy and research practices. The role is expected to involve not only conducting research but also shaping how research is done within the organization and potentially mentoring others.

Reporting Structure: While not explicitly stated, a Senior UX Researcher typically reports to a Head of UX, a Director of Product, or a Lead Researcher. They will work within cross-functional product teams, collaborating daily with Product Managers and Designers.

Operations Impact: The Senior UX Researcher plays a critical role in ensuring product development is genuinely user-centered and data-driven. Their insights directly impact product strategy, design decisions, feature prioritization, and ultimately, client success and business growth. They act as the voice of the user, mitigating risks associated with product development and maximizing the potential for successful market adoption.

Growth Opportunities:

• Research Leadership: Opportunity to lead research initiatives for major clients or product lines, potentially growing into a Research Lead or Manager role.

• Methodological Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific research areas (e.g., AI research, qualitative methods, quantitative analysis) or broaden skillset across the UX spectrum.

• Mentorship & Training: Opportunity to mentor junior researchers, develop training materials, and contribute to the growth of the research community within DEPT®.

• Cross-functional Influence: Expand influence across product strategy, design systems, and GTM (Go-To-Market) operations by consistently delivering high-impact insights.

• Industry Expertise: Develop deep domain knowledge in specific client industries that DEPT® serves.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title and the emphasis on evolving research practices suggest a clear path for growth, either into leadership roles or as a deep subject matter expert. The company's "Growth Invention" philosophy implies that individuals who can drive innovation and demonstrate impact will be well-positioned for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as Hybrid, requiring 5 days in the office per month. This suggests a modern office environment designed to facilitate collaboration, ideation, and team building, balanced with the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s): Zagreb, Croatia. The office is likely situated in a accessible part of the city, facilitating commuting for local employees.

Workspace Context:

• Expect a collaborative workspace where UX Researchers work alongside designers, product managers, and engineers, fostering direct communication and rapid feedback loops.

• Access to necessary tools and technology for conducting research, data analysis, and creating presentations will be provided.

• Opportunities for informal and formal collaboration sessions, workshops, and team meetings will be integral to the daily workflow.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time work schedule is expected, with the flexibility afforded by the hybrid model. The emphasis on "acting fast" and "getting sh*t done" suggests a dynamic pace where efficient time management is key.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is designed to balance the benefits of in-person collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. The "5 days in the office per month" suggests a structured approach to hybrid work, likely with designated collaboration days or team-specific schedules.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A brief call with a recruiter to assess basic qualifications, cultural fit, and understanding of the role.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the hiring manager focusing on experience, research philosophy, and alignment with DEPT®'s values.

• Portfolio Review & Presentation: Candidates will present a selection of their work, detailing research processes, methodologies, insights, and impact. This is a critical stage for demonstrating senior-level expertise.

• Cross-functional Team Interview: Meeting with potential colleagues (e.g., Product Managers, Designers) to assess collaboration style and ability to integrate into a team.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss strategic thinking and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 projects that best showcase your senior-level capabilities, problem-solving skills, and impact. Focus on projects that align with DEPT®'s "Growth Invention" ethos.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the research methods used, the key insights derived, and the tangible outcomes or impact on the product. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your research process, including how you framed research questions, navigated challenges, and ensured your findings were actionable.

• Demonstrate Impact: Quantify the impact of your research whenever possible (e.g., increased conversion rates, reduced user errors, improved user satisfaction scores).

• Showcase Collaboration: Provide examples of how you collaborated with cross-functional teams and influenced product decisions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a practical research challenge or a case study discussion that assesses your ability to frame research questions, propose methodologies, and anticipate insights for a given product scenario.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, especially when discussing complex research scenarios or difficult trade-offs.

• Research DEPT®'s recent work, client portfolio, and their "Growth Invention" philosophy to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio presentation is likely the most crucial part of the interview process for a Senior UX Researcher. Candidates should prepare thoroughly to demonstrate not just research skills but also strategic thinking, communication prowess, and a proven ability to drive product success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Research Platforms: Tools for conducting remote usability testing, surveys, and user interviews (e.g., UserTesting.com, Lookback, Maze, Typeform, SurveyMonkey).

• Synthesis & Analysis: Software for qualitative data analysis (e.g., Dovetail, NVivo, Miro for affinity mapping) and potentially quantitative analysis tools (e.g., Excel, SPSS, R, Python for statistical analysis).

• Collaboration Tools: Platforms like Miro, Mural, Figma, and Confluence for collaborative ideation, documentation, and insight sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Familiarity with web analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) to contextualize user behavior.

• Experience with A/B testing platforms (e.g., Optimizely, VWO) for validating hypotheses.

• Tools for creating dashboards and reports to communicate research findings effectively. CRM & Automation:

• While not primary research tools, an understanding of how CRM data (e.g., Salesforce) or marketing automation platforms might inform research questions or be used in conjunction with user feedback would be beneficial.

• Experience with project management tools (e.g., Jira, Asana, Trello) for managing research workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific tools will vary based on DEPT®'s client projects and internal standards. However, proficiency in a range of qualitative and quantitative research tools, coupled with strong collaboration and synthesis platforms, is expected. The ability to leverage data from analytics and A/B testing tools to enrich qualitative research is a plus for a senior role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Better Together: Emphasis on collaborative problem-solving and mutual support, fostering a strong sense of team cohesion across disciplines.

• Relentlessly Curious: A drive for continuous learning, exploring new methods, technologies, and user behaviors to stay at the forefront of innovation.

• Get Sh*t Done: A bias for action, focusing on delivering tangible results efficiently and effectively, even in complex or uncertain environments.

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and advocating for the user, ensuring that all product development is grounded in real user needs and behaviors.

• Growth Mindset: Encouraging experimentation, learning from failures, and continuously seeking opportunities for improvement in both individual skills and team processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, with a strong emphasis on cross-functional teamwork between research, design, product management, and engineering.

• Open communication and a culture of constructive feedback are encouraged to refine research practices and product strategies.

• Knowledge sharing is actively promoted through internal sessions, documentation, and informal discussions.

📝 Enhancement Note: DEPT®'s core values are integral to its "Growth Invention" identity. For a Senior UX Researcher, embodying these values means actively contributing to a collaborative environment, driving research-informed innovation, and ensuring that research efforts translate into measurable business outcomes for clients.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Speed and Rigor: Navigating the need for rapid insights in an agile "Growth Invention" environment while maintaining research quality and methodological integrity.

• Diverse Client Needs: Adapting research approaches and methodologies to suit a wide range of clients, industries, and project scopes.

• Influencing Product Strategy: Effectively translating research findings into actionable product strategies and gaining buy-in from diverse stakeholders with potentially competing priorities.

• Integrating AI Research: Staying ahead of the curve in researching user interactions with emerging AI technologies and their implications for product design.

• Scaling Research Practice: Contributing to the development and implementation of scalable research processes and standards across a growing organization.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Methodologies: Opportunities to explore and implement cutting-edge research techniques, including those related to AI and emerging technologies.

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

• Mentorship Programs: Access to mentorship from senior leaders within DEPT® or opportunities to mentor junior researchers, fostering leadership skills.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Exposure to marketing, technology, and business strategy through projects with diverse clients, broadening overall