Lead User Researcher
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Passionate about inclusive research and detail-driven, Fran has an unwavering work ethic. She is naturally inquisitive with a strong creative mind. Fran has a proven record of conducting scientifically robust research, analysing data, and disseminating findings.
She has experience of conducting user experience research in both public and private sectors. Fran has managed a team of user researchers and enjoys mentoring others to help them reach their potential and have a brighter future. She is excited to work with non-profits and businesses that do good for the world.
FOUNDER & DIRECTOR OF UX RESEARCH, Rebel Research UK. Nov 2023 – Present. Leading user research for a counselling charity. Running usability testing with service users to inform the merging of two websites and improve general usability and accessibility. Objectives are to increase self-referrals and successful funding bids. Collaborating with a UX Designer and a Social Media Assistant to ensure designs are informed by our research findings.
SENIOR USER RESEARCHER, Methods Analytics. Nov 2023 – Nov 2024. Led on public sector projects for clients such as the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, the Department for Transport, and other internal projects using agile and GDS approaches. Collaborated with other User Researchers and Developers.
USER RESEARCH CONTRACTOR, Obodo. Oct 2023 – Nov 2023. Conducted usability testing for Marks & Spencer on their credit card acquisition web pages to evaluate how easy they are to navigate and understand. Conducted research to understand users' typical behaviours, goals and needs around obtaining credit.
LEAD USER RESEARCHER, Bupa. Mar 2022 – Sep 2022. Managed the first user research team at Bupa. Led on building out the user research function. Kick started a thriving user research community of practice. Helped to advance the accessibility champions group. Coached and mentored designers and junior User Researchers. Introduced Bupa to GDS practices. Worked within agile squads alongside designers and delivery.
USER RESEARCHER, Methods Business and Digital. Apr 2021 – Mar 2022. Led on public sector projects for clients such as the Ministry of Defense, the NHS, Birmingham City Council, the Office for National Statistics, and other internal projects using agile and GDS approaches. Helped to advance the accessibility champions group. Contributed to the user research community of practice.
CRIME INTELLIGENCE OFFICER, West Yorkshire Police. Jan 2020 – Nov 2020. Worked on multiple investigations in an agile and volatile environment. Gathered, assessed, recorded, and disseminated intelligence. Conducted risk assessments and managed vulnerable people. Produced effectively graded intelligence packages. Made difficult decisions under pressure to ensure the public’s safety.
DIGITAL DATA ASSESSOR, West Yorkshire Police & North East Counter-terrorism Unit. Feb 2019 – Jan 2020. Assessed digital devices to aid criminal investigations. Reviewed media across various digital platforms and produced reports and court statements to reflect findings. Used investigative skills to uncover vital evidence. Reacted quickly and made effective decisions to prevent terrorist attacks and protect the public.
CLINICAL RESEARCHER, Spectrum Community Healthcare CIC. Apr 2015 – Jan 2019 (Full-time), Jan 2019 – Apr 2022 (Part-time). Helped set up the organisation’s research function. Designed and managed qualitative and quantitative empirical research studies to improve health care services for patients.
Spectrum’s research profile internally and externally. Generated revenue for the Research Team. Project managed and influenced stakeholders. Worked in multi-disciplinary and cross-organisational teams. Presented at national and international conferences and disseminated findings via journal publications. Recruited research participants and conducted follow ups. Developed study protocols. Designed and delivered service evaluations.
⚡SCQF Level 8 Professional Diploma in UX Design | 90% | Glasgow Caledonian University & UX Design Institute
⚡MSc by Research in Criminology & Criminal Justice | Distinction |
⚡BSc Psychology with Counselling (Hons)| 1st |
