Savannah Young

About Savannah Young

I’ve spent the last 12+ years helping teams make better decisions by deeply understanding people — especially when the path forward is unclear.I’m a Researcher and leader who thrives in ambiguity. I ask hard questions, reframe messy ones, and design research that brings clarity to high-stakes decisions. My work informs advertising, product innovation, go-to-market strategy, and long-term brand building, in close partnership with Product, Design, Analytics, and Marketing.My subject matter expertise centers on vulnerable populations and people navigating global migration journeys — across health, finances, and family life. Whether researching physicians treating refugees, newcomers sending remittances home, or consumers making complex financial decisions, I’m driven by one core question: How do people make decisions when the stakes are high and the system isn’t built for them or the situation they’re in?My published research, blending qualitative and quantitative methods in Israeli hospitals serving Syrian refugees, shaped how I approach every project: with rigor, empathy, and a deep respect for lived experience.What I’m known for: • Turning ambiguity into sharp, strategic direction • Conducting deep, human conversations that surface what others miss • Translating multi-signal research into clear, decisive action • Telling stories that help teams see the customer differently • Building research foundations that teams rely on as they scaleI care about building inclusive, innovative brands-the kind that earn trust because they truly understand the people they serve.Outside of work, I’m raising kids and sourdough starter, sneaking in tennis matches, and getting outdoors whenever I can.

Experience

1. Sr Researcher

   Remitly

   Jun 2023 — Present · Seattle, WA, US

   I lead qualitative and mixed methods research focused on global and immigrant audiences, turning deep audience insights into strategy across product, marketing, brand, and growth. From early-stage concept testing to campaign development, I help cross-functional teams make decisions grounded in real customer voices. My work spans ethnographic research, international surveys in 14+ languages, and in-app experimentation—powering new customer acquisition, retention, and creative development.

Education

• The University of Georgia

  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Human Development and Family Science

  2012 — 2016

• The University of Georgia

  Certificate, Global Health, School of Public Health

  2012 — 2016

• Valdosta State University

  Bachelor's degree, Psychology/Spanish

  2008 — 2012

Skills

• Research
• Microsoft Office
• Mental Health
• Human Development
• Experience Working with Children
• Refugee Policy
• Ethnography
• Leadership
• Grant Writing
• Qualitative Research
• Refugee Health
• Public Speaking
• Event Planning
• Social Media
• Community Outreach
• Refugees
• Innovation Research
• Consumer Insight
• Microsoft Word
• Teaching
• Powerpoint
• Childcare