Job Description
We are looking for an experienced Lead User Researcher with strong GDS Beta delivery experience to take ownership of user research on one of our most critical and visible programmes. This is a fixed‑term contract role, with flexibility on duration (minimum of 6 months), designed for someone who enjoys leading at pace in complex delivery environments.
In this role, you will set the direction for user research, act as a trusted point of contact for the client, and guide the wider team through a GDS Beta Assessment. You’ll be empowered to make strategic decisions, influence outcomes, and shape the research approach to support successful delivery.
Location: UK - Remote or Hybrid, subject to location.
Salary:£59,800 - £75,000 subject to location and experience.
The role can be remote or hybrid, depending on location. We are ideally looking for someone who can start immediately, though we are happy to speak with candidates who have a notice period. Due to the nature of the programme, eligibility for UK Security Clearance and NPPV3 is essential.
You’ll lead the planning, facilitation and delivery of user research across a substantial GDS Beta project, working closely with multidisciplinary teams on problems that are often complex, sensitive and fast‑moving. Autonomy, sound judgement and strong project management, relationship management and negotiation skills will be key.
A significant part of the role will involve supporting the programme through a GDS Beta Assessment — making the right calls at the right time, clearly articulating research insights, and having confident, informed conversations with senior stakeholders and clients to ensure the work meets the required standards.
While the environment brings challenge and pressure, it also offers the opportunity to contribute to services with meaningful societal impact, where good user research genuinely shapes outcomes for the public.
Qualifications
Essential Experience
* Significant experience leading user research within GDS projects
* Proven involvement in GDS Assessments, ideally at Beta stage
* Experience working within multidisciplinary delivery teams
* Eligibility for UK Security Clearance and NPPV3
* Demonstrable experience managing complex stakeholder groups, navigating ambiguity and competing priorities
Desirable Experience
* Experience working within Bluelight, Public Safety or Justice contexts
Benefits
* Private Medical Cover funded by NEC for Employees (with the option to add family members at an additional cost)
* 25 days paid holiday with the option to buy/sell (FTE)
* 4 x basic salary life assurance cover funded by NEC (with the option to increase cover at an additional cost)
* A Group Pension Plan with fantastic employer contributions up to a maximum of 8.5%
* A selection of flexible benefits to suit your individual needs
* All colleagues get free access to LinkedIn Learning.
* Give back days
* Annual team and company away-days
* Personal learning budget
Other Information
* Candidates must be able to demonstrate a pre-existing right to work and travel within the UK. Documentary evidence will be required.
* All offers are subject to satisfactory vetting, references and occupational health checks.
* Depending on the nature of the role a DisclosureBarring Service (DBS) check may also be required.
Equal Opportunity Employer
NEC Software Solutions is an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from all communities.
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