Qualitative Market Research Manager (12 Month Fixed Term Contract)

Escalent; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading market research firm in the United Kingdom is looking for a Qualitative Market Research Manager for a 12-month maternity cover. The role involves managing qualitative research projects, client interaction, and delivering actionable insights. Ideal candidates will have over 5 years of experience, excellent client-facing skills, and a passion for the automotive industry. This position offers flexibility and a competitive salary based on experience.

Benefits

Opportunity to work with leading automotive brands

Supportive team environment

Genuine flexibility in working arrangements

Competitive salary

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in qualitative research methods is essential.
• Self-starter who can work autonomously.
• Ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining detail.

Responsibilities

• Manage qualitative research projects from brief to delivery.
• Act as the primary contact for clients.
• Lead and moderate focus groups and interviews.

Skills

Qualitative research methods

Project management

Client-facing skills

Analytical skills

English language proficiency

Initiative

Collaboration

Job description

The Role

We are seeking a Qualitative Market Research Manager to join our team on a 12‑month maternity cover contract. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing qualitative research projects from brief to delivery, including moderation of IDIs and Focus Groups where needed, ensuring that insights are robust, actionable, and tailored to client needs. While prior automotive experience is not essential, an interest in and enthusiasm for the sector is a must.

Experience with online research communities and the Recollective platform would be advantageous, but not essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage end‑to‑end qualitative research projects, including design, managing recruitment, moderation, analysis, and reporting.
• Act as the primary point of contact for clients, building strong relationships and delivering clear, compelling insights.
• Contribute to proposals and project design to ensure methodological rigour and creativity.
• Lead and moderate focus groups, depth interviews (in‑person and online) online bulletin boards and other methodologies.
• Manage and analyse online communities, drawing out themes and narratives.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to share knowledge and maintain high‑quality standards.
• Stay informed about trends in the automotive industry and integrate this knowledge into client work.

Skills & Experience

• Solid experience (5 years plus) in qualitative research methods (essential).
• Self‑starter – takes the initiative, able & happy to work largely autonomously.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple projects and deadlines, while maintaining precision and attention to detail.
• Excellent client-facing skills, with confidence in presenting and communicating insights.
• Strong analytical and storytelling ability – able to turn data into engaging, actionable recommendations. Strong English language written skills.
• (Desirable – though not essential) Experience managing online communities or other digital qualitative methodologies.
• (Desirable – though not essential) Knowledge or experience of the automotive sector.
• (Desirable – though not essential) Experience of luxury products / services and/or researching higher income groups / HNWIs.
• A proactive, collaborative, and adaptable mindset, suited to working in a small, dynamic team.
• (Desirable – though not essential) Fluent in German.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work with leading automotive brands on exciting projects.
• Supportive, close-knit team environment.
• Genuine flexibility in working arrangements (to be agreed).
• Competitive salary (depending on experience).

Equal Opportunity Employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status.