Director, User Research - Product Design

About the role

The Director of User Research at Datadog will lead a team that integrates human insights with quantitative depth and AI-driven synthesis to build the right products for our customers while driving measurable business impact. The role involves growing, managing, and mentoring a talented group of researchers, establishing a Mixed-Methods Practice, scaling research capabilities, taking accountability for business metrics influenced by research findings, and building the foundation for AI as a research collaborator.

Responsibilities

• Grow, manage and mentor a talented group of researchers to operate at the frontier of the field.
• Establish a Mixed-Methods Practice ensuring researchers can analyze product telemetry and statistical data ("the what") alongside qualitative insights ("the why").
• Scale Research Capabilities by defining inquiry methods and teaching the broader organization (designers and PMs) how to use them to run deep, insight-driven probes.
• Take accountability for the business metrics influenced by research findings. You will be expected to demonstrate business impact through the work that you lead.
• Build the foundation for AI as a research collaborator, using tools like custom GPTs and synthetic personas to accelerate synthesis and provide real-time deliverables.
• Collaborate with the Head of Design, design and cross-functional leaders to establish roadmaps and ensure research insights are grounded in both technical reality and user needs.

Requirements

10-15+ years in user research or product design, with experience building and managing high-performing teams. Proficient in both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, with the ability to size and validate behavioral patterns using data. Proven track record of moving research beyond "usability testing" to impacting product direction and business metrics. Comfortable navigating the technical complexities of modern software development and infrastructure. Excited by the potential of AI to transform how research is conducted, synthesized, and shared.

Qualifications

Ph.D. in Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, Cognitive Science, or related field. Experience in product design, user research, or similar roles. Strong leadership and management skills. Excellent communication and collaboration abilities. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Skills

• Expertise in mixed-methods research and quantitative analysis.
• Experience with AI-driven synthesis tools and techniques.
• Strong understanding of software development and infrastructure.
• Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively.
• Experience with interviewing, observation, and usability testing.

Benefits and Growth

New hire stock equity (RSUs) and employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), continuous professional development, product training, and career pathing, intradepartmental mentor and buddy program for in-house networking, an inclusive company culture, ability to join our Community Guilds (Datadog employee resource groups), access to Inclusion Talks, free, global mental health benefits for employees and dependents age 6+, competitive global benefits, competitive salary and equity package, and a wide range of best in class, comprehensive and inclusive employee benefits.

Pay

Competitive global benefits.

Schedule

Hybrid work option available.