Product Researcher

The main responsibilities of a Product Researcher at DCSA include leading product discovery initiatives to uncover new opportunities that align with the company’s strategic goals. This encompasses collaborating with industry experts and stakeholders to identify challenges, driving and executing product discovery from problem definition to concept validation, and continuously improving the discovery process. Additionally, managing product opportunities with the CPO and working on existing product enhancements forms a crucial part of the role.

To qualify for the Product Researcher role at DCSA, candidates should have a minimum of 5+ years of experience in product discovery, user research, or innovation roles. A strong foundation in design thinking and user-centered design is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate experience in facilitating workshops, possess strong analytical skills, and have the capability to turn data into actionable insights. Familiarity with B2B environments, particularly in logistics or container shipping, can be beneficial, although not mandatory.

DCSA is committed to the personal development of its employees, including those in the Product Researcher position. The company provides a yearly budget for personal development, allowing you to pursue courses, certifications, or professional growth activities that align with your career goals. This commitment to your development ensures that you stay equipped with the latest skills and knowledge in the ever-evolving landscape of product research.

At DCSA, you can expect a flexible work environment with the option to work from home. While there’s a convenient office located in Amsterdam Zuidas, the company values work-life balance and offers flexibility to its employees. This enables the Product Researcher to thrive professionally while maintaining a fulfilling personal life. Additionally, you'll be part of a collaborative culture that emphasizes innovation and teamwork.

DCSA offers a comprehensive benefits package for its Product Researchers, including 30 vacation days along with additional public holidays, an annual bonus, and company-paid collective accident and disability insurance. You’ll also enjoy unlimited access to OpenUp, which supports mental health and wellness. These benefits reflect our commitment to taking care of our employees and fostering a positive work atmosphere.

When answering this question, share specific examples from your previous roles where you led product discovery initiatives. Highlight your methodology, the challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved. Focus on metrics that demonstrate the impact your initiatives had on the product pipeline and how they contributed to overall business goals.

In your response, discuss the frameworks or criteria you use to prioritize product opportunities. Mention collaboration with stakeholders and the Chief Product Officer to align with strategic goals. Include examples of how you’ve successfully managed conflicting priorities in past roles.

Discuss a variety of research methods, such as interviews, surveys, usability testing, and observation. Provide examples of how you’ve applied these methods to gather insights and inform your product concepts. Emphasize your ability to choose the appropriate research method based on the context and goals of the project.

Share a specific product concept you developed by detailing the problem it addressed, the research conducted to validate the concept, and the final outcome. Highlight the impact this concept had on users and the business, emphasizing metrics and positive feedback received from stakeholders.

Mention your adoption of design thinking principles throughout the product research process. Explain how you involve users early and often, ensuring their needs and pain points guide the design. Reference examples of user feedback you integrated into product iterations to improve the final outcome.

Describe your experience in B2B product research. Focus on the unique challenges faced in this environment, such as understanding diverse stakeholders and complex user needs. Examples of successful projects in a B2B context will demonstrate your adaptability and skill in navigating these challenges.

Discuss the metrics you use to evaluate success, such as user engagement, satisfaction rates, or time to market. Share examples of past initiatives where you measured success and adapted your strategies based on findings. Highlight the importance of iterating based on user feedback.

Emphasize the significance of collaboration with cross-functional teams including product managers, designers, and engineers. Share examples where team collaboration led to breakthroughs or innovative solutions during the product discovery process.

Explain your process of analyzing research data to derive actionable insights. Highlight any specific tools or software you use for data analysis and provide examples of how you’ve previously turned data findings into impactful product decisions.

Narrate a specific experience in facilitating a workshop, detailing your preparation, the structure of the session, and the final outcomes. Emphasize your skills in keeping participants engaged and how this facilitated creativity and innovation within the team.