User Researcher

User Researcher (FCSF
141)

Contract:

Fixed term until 30 June 2028, working 35 hours per week. Flexible working options welcomed.

Salary: £38,689 per annum plus benefits including final salary pension scheme, generous annual leave, and flexible and hybrid working.

Location:

Birmingham, Manchester or Nottingham. The role will be based in one of the listed locations, with hybrid working and remote options, requiring 1‑2 on‑site days per week.

As a User Researcher, you will plan and conduct user research across a range of projects, using methods such as interviews, focus groups, round tables and usability testing.

You will engage with a diverse range of users across the arts and culture sector, including individuals, organisations and underrepresented communities, designing inclusive and accessible research approaches to ensure participation from people with different backgrounds and access needs.

Working closely with service designers, product managers and delivery teams, you will help define research questions, analyse findings and translate evidence into actionable recommendations. You will evaluate user journeys and experiences, identifying opportunities to improve services and remove barriers for users.

You will advocate for user‑centred design across the organisation, communicate insights through compelling reports and presentations, and contribute to developing research capability and good practice. The role also includes managing research logistics and working with external suppliers where required.

Requirements:

• Experience planning and conducting user research using a range of qualitative research methods.
• Strong ability to analyse and synthesise findings into clear, evidence‑based insights.
• Skilled at engaging diverse audiences and designing inclusive research approaches.
• Experience working collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and ability to communicate findings to stakeholders at all levels.
• Understanding of user‑centred design principles and ability to work across multiple projects in a structured and organised way.
• Experience of public sector services, the arts and culture sector, or Government Digital Service (GDS) approaches would be beneficial.
• Curious, empathetic and motivated by improving services through evidence and insight.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement:
Arts Council are committed to being an inclusive employer, building an inclusive workplace, and recruiting a workforce that is as diverse as the communities we serve. We welcome candidates of all backgrounds and encourage you to apply.

If you need adjustments to support you in your application, please let us know. Disabled candidates are supported by Evenbreak during the application process.