Managing Director - Research

VanRath; Belfast; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking an experienced Associate Director or Senior Manager in Belfast to oversee a high-performing team. This role combines leadership with strategic growth opportunities in social research and evaluation. The ideal candidate will possess strong skills in both quantitative and qualitative research methods, along with proven business development and client management expertise, and a passion for mentoring others. A competitive package is offered.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in both quantitative and qualitative methods.
• Proven track record of business development and revenue growth.
• Exceptional client-handling and communication skills.
• Strong leadership qualities, with passion for mentoring teams.
• Well-networked within Northern Ireland with a good understanding of the local market.
• High levels of drive, energy, and resilience.

Responsibilities

• Lead and grow the Belfast office, ensuring commercial performance.
• Drive new business through proposal development and networking.
• Oversee and assure quality of research project delivery.
• Mentor a talented local team, providing leadership and support.
• Champion company's reputation and build visibility in Northern Ireland.
• Collaborate with UK colleagues to share knowledge and expertise.

Skills

Quantitative methods

Qualitative methods

Business development

Client-handling skills

Leadership qualities

Networking

Communication skills

Job description

VANRATH are delighted to be exclusively recruiting for this outstanding opportunity within one of the world's leading research organisations.

Despite the title, this is not a traditional corporate MD post - it's a fantastic senior-level opportunity for an experienced Associate Director or Senior Manager looking to take that next step into a leadership role. The successful candidate will oversee a small, high-performing Belfast team, lead a diverse range of social research and evaluation projects, and act as the local figurehead for the organisation's Northern Ireland operations.

This position combines the hands-on, intellectual challenge of research leadership with the strategic impact of managing and growing a business area. It's perfect for someone with energy, ambition, and a genuine passion for mentoring others and shaping the direction of meaningful social research.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and grow the Belfast office, taking accountability for commercial performance and business development.
• Drive new business through proposal development, networking, and client relationship management.
• Oversee and quality assure delivery of research projects across both qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Mentor and manage a talented local team, providing strong leadership, support, and career development.
• Champion the company's reputation in Northern Ireland, building visibility and credibility across sectors.
• Collaborate with UK colleagues to share knowledge, innovation, and expertise.

The Ideal Candidate

• A research and/or evaluation specialist with significant experience in both quantitative and qualitative methods.
• Proven track record of business development and revenue growth.
• Exceptional client-handling and communication skills, with credibility at senior stakeholder level.
• Strong leadership qualities, with a passion for mentoring, motivating, and developing teams.
• Well-networked within Northern Ireland, with excellent understanding of the local market.
• High levels of drive, energy, and resilience.

What's the next step?

If you think this role may be of interest to you, or you wish to discuss any other senior accountancy jobs in Northern Ireland, please apply via the link below or contact Emma Jayne Bowen at VANRATH or on LinkedIn in the strictest confidence.

Why VANRATH will help you secure your next role:

Established in 2000, VANRATH has become a market leader in Northern Ireland. This success is a direct result of our dedication to confidentiality, professionalism and the wealth of knowledge held by our Senior Consultants. VANRATH has a demonstrable track record in pairing the best local talent with leading local businesses.