Qualitative Research Innovation Lead, APAC (Client Development & Acquisition)

NielsenIQ; Kuala Lumpur; On-site; MYR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A global consumer intelligence company seeks a Qualitative Research Innovation Lead in Kuala Lumpur. This role involves leading qualitative research initiatives, engaging with clients through consultative selling, and driving commercial success. The successful candidate will have over 8 years of experience in qualitative research, exceptional communication skills, and a collaborative spirit. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact on innovation for top-tier clients across the APAC region.

Benefits

Flexible working environment

Volunteer time off

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in qualitative research or consulting.
• Mastery of qualitative methodologies (focus groups, ethnography).
• Exceptional client engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Engage clients with consultative selling.
• Work on complex research briefs with teams.
• Lead discussions with global clients.

Skills

Qualitative research expertise

Commercial selling

Client management

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree

Job description

Qualitative Research Innovation Lead, APAC (Client Development & Acquisition)

At NIQ, our obsession in helping our clients to grow through a comprehensive understanding of consumer behavior leveraging on the ongoing innovation in technology is what motivates us. Our work helps our clients set growth strategies and determines what products or services you ultimately see in the market and how our clients drive their marketing and trade strategies.

Job Description

Are you a qualitative research expert ready to step into a high-impact, commercial leadership role? Do you thrive in dynamic, collaborative teams and have a passion for driving innovation and growth? If you’re hungry to make a difference and eager to accelerate your career, this is your opportunity to lead the charge in transforming how leading brands across APAC innovate.

• Be a Growth Catalyst: Champion the integration of cutting‑edge qualitative research into the innovation journeys of top‑tier clients. Your insights will fuel bold, future‑focused decisions that shape markets.
• Commercial Leadership: Take ownership of business development—identify new opportunities, pitch innovative solutions, and drive commercial success.
• Dynamic Teamwork: Collaborate with some of the brightest minds in client service, technical, and innovation teams. Together, you’ll design and deliver solutions that set new industry standards.
• Thought Leadership: Position yourself as a trusted advisor—engage senior stakeholders, present breakthrough methodologies, and lead conversations that influence the future of innovation.
• Continuous Growth: Coach and mentor teams, share your expertise, and develop your own leadership skills in a supportive, high‑energy environment.

Responsibilities

• Engage clients with consultative selling—ask the right questions, uncover business challenges, and propose tailored, high‑impact solutions.
• Work with APAC Qualitative lead and local market teams on complicated research briefs and help them convert the opportunity into a proposal and a win.
• Engage in big‑ticket conversations with global and regional clients to make an early impact on their innovation cycles.
• Present new services and innovative methodologies, positioning yourself as a go‑to expert for Innovation qualitative insights.
• Lead the complete commercial cycle: prepare proposals, manage pricing, and drive conversion from pitch to project.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams on study design, project kick‑offs, and seamless handovers.
• Deliver compelling presentations to senior stakeholders, ensuring insights are actionable and questions are answered.
• Conduct workshops on innovation – JTBD, Idea generation, Co‑creation, etc., with the client’s insights, marketing, design, and R&D teams.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in qualitative research, consulting, or marketing, with a proven track record in innovation research and commercial selling.
• Mastery of qualitative methodologies (focus groups, IDIs, ethnography, observations) and the ability to turn insights into actionable recommendations.
• Exceptional client management and relationship‑building skills; comfortable engaging mid‑to‑senior level stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills in English (additional APAC languages a plus).
• Growth mindset, entrepreneurial spirit, and a passion for making an impact.

Additional Information

• Flexible working environment
• Volunteer time off

NIQ is the world’s leading consumer intelligence company, delivering the most complete understanding of consumer buying behavior and revealing new pathways to growth. In 2023, NIQ combined with GfK, bringing together the two industry leaders with unparalleled global reach.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At NIQ, we are steadfast in our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace that mirrors the rich diversity of the communities and markets we serve. We believe that embracing a wide range of perspectives drives innovation and excellence. All employment decisions at NIQ are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. We invite individuals who share our dedication to inclusivity and equity to join us in making a meaningful impact. To learn more about our ongoing efforts in diversity and inclusion, please visit the https://nielseniq.com/global/en/news-center/diversity-inclusion.