Senior Research & Insights Director - Strategy & Growth

Smith Hanley Associates; Culver City (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A leadership role in Financial Services research, the position champions complex custom studies and acts as a strategic partner to clients and internal teams. Remote, West Coast oriented, with a compensation package including a base salary and bonus.

You will guide design across qualitative, quantitative, and advanced methodologies, supervise teams, and contribute to growth by shaping insights and delivering actionable, story-driven deliverables that drive client success.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in custom market research design and analysis.
• Deep experience leading complex, strategic projects across qualitative, quantitative, and advanced analytics.
• Proven ability to consult with senior stakeholders and shape business strategy.
• Strong leadership experience managing and developing research talent.
• Highly strategic thinker with strong ownership and accountability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to roll up sleeves and contribute directly at any stage of the research process when needed.

Responsibilities

• Build consultative, trusted partnerships with senior client stakeholders
• Lead strategic conversations around business objectives and research design
• Identify organic growth opportunities and contribute to account expansion
• Partner with senior leadership on new business pitches and capability presentations
• Design and oversee complex custom research across qualitative, quantitative, and advanced methodologies
• Provide high‑level strategic oversight at key project milestones
• Ensure creative custom methodologies are executed with rigor and impact
• Guide the development of story‑driven, visually compelling deliverables with actionable recommendations
• Serve as senior internal advisor to project teams and strategic consultant to clients
• Drive efficiency, quality control, and profitability across engagements

Job description

A leadership role in Financial Services research, the position champions complex custom studies and acts as a strategic partner to clients and internal teams. Remote, West Coast oriented, with a compensation package including a base salary and bonus.

You will guide design across qualitative, quantitative, and advanced methodologies, supervise teams, and contribute to growth by shaping insights and delivering actionable, story-driven deliverables that drive client success.