Leading a Product Research team

Members of the Product Research team at Workhuman

THE CHALLENGE

Workhuman creates b2b software to enable employee recognition and drive engagement, with customers including Cisco, Pfizer and Intuit. I took on leadership of the product research function, with the mission of increasing the strategic impact and volume of insight delivered.

My ROLE

Senior Product Research Manager

THE PROCESS

  • Assessed maturity level of the team and put in plan strategy to raise the level

  • Secured investment to improve research toolkit, managing supplier relationships

  • 121s with team members, individual mentoring and development plans

  • Growing team size to over double the original number 

  • Overseeing delivery of 80+ quantitative and qualitative research projects annually

  • Introduction of innovations: Research Academy, Feedback Community, RITE approach

  • Co-leadership of the Women & Allies ERG, raising awareness of topical issues and improving the workplace

OUTCOMES

The Product Research team was recognised as a strategic function playing a key role in product decisions and design iterations. 


TESTIMONIALS

“I had the privilege of reporting directly to Jess, and I cannot recommend her leadership highly enough. Jess is the definition of a team-first leader who consistently created an environment built on mutual trust and respect. She empowered every member of our team to do their best work by fostering psychological safety and encouraging diverse perspectives.”
Louise Leavy, Senior UX Researcher

“Under her guidance, our research practice grew from a tight-knit team of three to eight specialists in just 18 months; our revamped methodologies cut turnaround time and improved quality of output. Cross-functional workshops were championed by Jessica, only adding to our success as a function.

I wholeheartedly recommend her for any leadership role demanding strategic acumen, emotional intelligence, and the ability to transform a group of talented individuals into a united, high-performing team. Any organisation would benefit from her exceptional vision and unparalleled commitment to empowering others.”
Norah Anne Boyle, Senior Product Researcher

Photos above: Jessica Richards and Alma Tarfa representing Workhuman (left) and an Employee Takeover for Jess (right)