Research Director

Jaspercolin; New York (NY); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A global research and analytics agency seeks a Director of Research & Insights to lead the North American insight function. This role requires turning complex datasets into decision-making stories and involves overseeing research engagements from start to finish. The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of experience in research and consulting, with a proven ability to manage client relationships and present insights effectively. This position encourages the mentor-mentee culture within the research team and demands high-quality research delivery.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in research, strategy, consulting, or insights roles.
• Ability to turn quantitative/qualitative data into strategic narratives.
• Strong experience owning client relationships and presenting to senior stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Own and execute research engagements from scoping to storytelling.
• Design methodologies tailored to challenging respondent groups.
• Mentor and elevate junior and mid-level researchers.

Skills

Research leadership

Data analysis

Storytelling

Consulting

Client relationship management

Job description

We’re a full-service research and analytics agency that helps brands connect with hard-to-reach audiences, leverage advanced analytics, and turn data into stories that inspire action. With global recruitment strength, primary research at scale, and integrated solutions combining data science, strategy, and storytelling, we operate across both B2C and B2B landscapes.We are seeking an accomplished and forward-thinking Director of Research & Insights to lead our North American insight function. This role is ideal for a researcher who can turn niche audiences, small samples, and complex datasets into decision-shaping stories- someone who thrives where research rigor meets creativity and strategic storytelling. You’ll bring methodological excellence, strategic insight, and the ability to transform data into compelling, business-ready narratives that drive meaningful impact.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities

End-to-End Insight Leadership

• Own and execute research engagements from scoping to storytelling, ensuring every deliverable aligns with client business needs.
• Architect robust research frameworks - qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method - that uncover deep human, market, and behavioral truths.
• Build narratives, not just decks: transform complex data into clear, strategic insights that inform growth, innovation, customer experience, and market positioning.

Research Excellence & Innovation

• Design methodologies tailored to challenging respondent groups, niche segments, and small-sample realities.
• Stay ahead of trends, technologies, and category dynamics to offer proactive, thought‑leading recommendations.
• Uphold the highest standards in research design, sampling, fieldwork oversight, quality control, and insight delivery.
• Serve as the strategic point of contact for key clients, including senior and C‑suite stakeholders.
• Understand evolving client needs and advise them with confidence, clarity, and creativity.
• Support business development through proposal leadership, pitch participation, and growth of existing accounts.

Team Development

• Mentor and elevate junior and mid‑level researchers through coaching in methodology, storytelling, client communication, and project leadership.
• Foster a culture of curiosity, rigor, creativity, and excellence within the research team.

Experience:

Required

• 8+ years in research, strategy, consulting, or insights roles.
• Track record of leading complex research programs across any of the following: CPG, Tech, Financial Services, Healthcare, Media, Telecom, or B2B sectors.
• Demonstrated ability to turn quantitative/qualitative data into actionable insights and strategic narratives.
• Strong experience owning client relationships and presenting research to senior stakeholders.
• Ability to lead cross‑functional delivery teams spanning analytics, consulting, product, and sales.

Preferred

• Deep understanding of sector‑specific trends, market dynamics, and client challenges.
• Consulting or agency experience integrating research with strategic planning.
• Strong analytical and storytelling skills - with fluency in simplifying complexity.
• Exceptional communication and presentation capabilities, internally and externally.

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