Manager, Research & Insights

Informa Connect - Global Finance; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k match

Health, vision and dental insurance

15-25 days PTO

Career development opportunities

Job summary

A leading global finance firm based in Chicago is seeking a Manager on the Research & Insights team to drive research projects and enhance industry expertise. This role involves executing complex research methodologies, managing studies from inception to conclusion, and mentoring junior staff. Ideal candidates will have 4-5 years of market research experience, a strong understanding of statistical software, and insights into the foodservice industry. Offering competitive benefits and a salary range of $70,000-$75,000 based on experience.

Qualifications

• 4-5 years of experience in market research, preferably in consulting or consumer research.
• Experience in the foodservice industry preferred.

Responsibilities

• Execute and manage quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
• Independently manage proprietary research studies from start to finish.
• Lead client presentations and webinars, actively participating in discussions.

Skills

Quantitative and qualitative research methodologies

Analytical and problem-solving abilities

Statistical analysis software proficiency

Communication skills

Knowledge of the foodservice industry

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in business, social science, market research, or related field

Tools

SPSS

Microsoft Office

Job description

We’re part of Informa, a global business with a network of trusted brands in specialist markets across more than 30 countries, and a member of the FTSE 100.

Our purpose is to connect our customers to information and people that help them know more, do more and be more. No other company in the world helps more people share professional knowledge or make business connections.

We run around 800 events each year, create digital platforms based on engaging news and information content, and operate professional development programs for individuals and businesses.

Technomic provides foodservice clients around the globe with the research, insights, and strategic consulting support they need to enhance their business strategies, decisions, and results. Our services range from major research studies and management consulting solutions to online databases and simple fact-finding assignments. Our clients include food manufacturers and distributors, restaurants and retailers, other foodservice organizations, and various institutions aligned with the food industry.

Our Mission: Technomic’s mission is to empower foodservice clients by providing the knowledge and tools they need to make informed, strategic decisions that drive success. Our commitment to excellence and innovation ensures that we remain a trusted partner in the foodservice industry.

Job Description

This role is based in our Chicago office.

Position Objective

As Manager on the Research & Insights team you will serve as a key contributor to research projects, leveraging strong technical expertise and project management capabilities. This role independently manages research projects while developing industry expertise and mentoring junior team members. You will execute all aspects of project work and collaborate with internal teams and clients with appropriate guidance and supervision.

Core Responsibilities

Research & Analysis

• Execute and manage quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, including online focus groups, bulletin boards, and in-depth interviews.
• Design and enhance intermediate survey instruments, ensuring quality standards and alignment with study objectives.
• Perform comprehensive data interpretation and analysis, developing meaningful implications from findings.
• Independently execute common advanced research methodologies (e.g., conjoint, MaxDiff, TURF).
• Identify relevant patterns and trends within research data to develop forward-looking, actionable insights.
• Create comprehensive report content, connecting data points to build coherent narratives.
• Lead project brainstorm sessions and independently draft executive summaries.

Project Management

• Independently manage proprietary research studies from start to finish, including timeline creation and resource allocation.
• Oversee syndicated report projects (CTR, Multi Client Studies).
• Participate in proposal development by confirming methodology feasibility.
• Manage survey testing and quality checks for multiple or complex survey designs.
• Monitor project budgets and timelines to ensure efficient delivery.
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure project objectives are met.

Technical Execution

• Manage statistical analysis using SPSS or similar analytical platforms.
• Execute and oversee chart automation processes for reporting.
• Utilize research platforms and internal tools effectively.
• Process and analyze data tables for comprehensive reporting.
• Apply technical expertise in external tools (e.g., Indico chart automation, Monday.com) for efficient project execution.

Team & Client Engagement

• Train junior staff on research processes and methodologies.
• Manage and support a small team of interns and research analysts.
• Lead client presentations and webinars, actively participating in Q&A sessions.
• Contribute industry knowledge to client discussions and deliverables.
• Begin developing subject matter expertise in specific segments or topics.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficient in statistical analysis software and research platforms.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Solid knowledge of the foodservice industry.
• Ability to craft concise, cohesive narratives based on data.
• Experience with project management and team coordination.

Professional Characteristics

• Detail-oriented with consistent delivery of high-quality work.
• Proactive approach to identifying and solving challenges.
• Strong interpersonal skills and collaborative mindset.
• Intellectual curiosity in approaching business questions.
• Effective time management across multiple projects.
• Positive attitude and professional demeanor.
• Manage statistical analysis using SPSS or similar analytical platforms.

Requirements

• 4-5 years of experience in market research, preferably in consulting, consumer research, or similar services.
• Bachelor's degree in business, social science, market research, or related field.
• Demonstrated experience with statistical software (SPSS or similar).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite.
• Experience in the foodservice industry preferred.

Additional Information

We believe that great things happen when people connect face-to-face. That's why we work in-person with each other, or with customers and partners, three days a week or more. When you’re not spending time together in one of our offices or other workplaces – like at an Informa event – you get the flexibility and support to work from home or remotely.

We work hard to make sure Life at Informa is rewarding, supportive and enjoyable for everyone. Here’s some of what you can expect when you join us.

Our benefits include:

• Great community: a welcoming culture with in-person and online social events, our fantastic Walk the World charity day and active colleague groups and networks promoting a positive, supportive, and collaborative work environment
• Broader impact: take up to four days per year to volunteer, with charity match funding available too
• Career opportunity: the opportunity to develop your career with bespoke training and learning, mentoring platforms and on-demand access to thousands of courses on LinkedIn Learning. When it’s time for the next step, we encourage and support internal job moves
• Time out: 15 days PTO rising to 20 after three years and 25 after six years, plus 10 national holidays, a birthday leave day and the chance to work from (almost!) anywhere for up to four weeks a year
• Competitive benefits, including a 401k match, health, vision and dental insurance, parental leave and an ESPP offering company shares at a minimum 15% discount
• Strong wellbeing support through EAP assistance, mental health first aiders, free access to a wellness app and more
• Recognition for great work, with global awards and kudos programs
• As an international company, the chance to collaborate with teams around the world

The salary range for this role is $70,000—$75,000, based on experience.

This posting will automatically expire on March 11, 2026.

We’re not solely focused on a checklist of skills. We champion energy and ambition and look for colleagues who will roll their sleeves up, join in and help make things happen. If it sounds like a match and you have most – although not all – of the skills and experience listed, we welcome your application.

If you would like to request reasonable adjustments or accommodations to assist your participation in the hiring process and, or in the advertised position, please inform the appropriate Talent Acquisition Partner for the role once they have been in touch. Your request will be reviewed and considered in confidence. At Informa, you'll find inclusive experiences and environments where all perspectives and backgrounds are welcomed. As part of this approach and our diversity and inclusion commitments, we are also formally an Equal Opportunities Employer. This means we base decisions on relevant qualifications and merit and do not discriminate on the basis of key characteristics and statuses, including all of those protected by law. Ask us or see our website for full information.

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