Senior Projects and Research Manager

Headhunters; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A research and technology firm based in Gqeberha is seeking a Senior Projects and Research Manager to lead multiple research initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess a relevant degree, extensive project management experience, and strong leadership skills. Responsibilities include managing cross-functional teams and delivering meaningful insights from data. This role offers opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 5 years’ experience in a similar role.
• Agile Project Management Certification advantageous.
• Valid drivers’ license and own reliable transport advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple research and project initiatives.
• Ensure accuracy and innovation across all stages of project execution.
• Guide and mentor a team of Project and Research Managers.
• Interpret and analyse complex data sets for insights.
• Promote customer experience measurement in projects.

Skills

Leadership skills

Data analysis

Project management

Agile methodologies

Microsoft Excel proficiency

Customer experience focus

Communication skills

Education

BCom / BSc Statistics / Marketing / Management degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Power BI

Job description

Overview

Our Client in the Research and Technology Industry is seeking to employ a Senior Projects and Research Manager to their team based in Port Elizabeth.

Requirements:

• BCom / BSc Statistics / Marketing / Management degree or equivalent.
• Agile Project Management Certification advantageous.
• Valid drivers’ license and own reliable transport advantageous.
• 5 years’ experience in a similar role.

Responsibilities, but not limited to:

• Lead and manage multiple research and project initiatives from scoping through to final delivery.
• Ensure accuracy, timeliness, and innovation across all stages of project execution.
• Guide, mentor, and support a team of Project and Research Managers to achieve high performance.
• Drive collaboration and alignment across cross-functional teams.
• Balance competing priorities effectively while maintaining project quality and strategic focus.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and stakeholder satisfaction.
• Interpret and analyse complex data sets to extract meaningful insights and recommendations.
• Deliver research outcomes that directly support strategic decision-making.
• Promote customer experience measurement and management as a core element of project work.
• Encourage curiosity and innovation to deliver fresh thinking and impactful research solutions.
• Maintain momentum on fast-paced projects while upholding high standards of quality and delivery.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, resilience, and proactive problem-solving.
• Strong ability to work with, analyse, interpret, and report on data.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including formulas, pivot tables, and data modelling.
• Confident user of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Familiarity with BI reporting tools (e.g., Power BI) is an advantage.
• Professional approach to report writing, documentation, and written communication.
• Confident in presenting findings clearly and credibly to stakeholders at all levels.
• Skilled in managing and monitoring all phases of a research project—from scoping to delivery.
• Practical application of Agile principles and ceremonies for effective delivery.
• Experienced in managing resources across multiple projects and prioritising effectively.
• Able to analyse customer interactions to identify themes and extract meaningful insights.
• Deep interest in customer experience measurement and management, with a focus on translating data into actionable outcomes.
• Committed to continuous improvement, with a focus on process efficiency and accuracy.
• Understanding of data structures and interest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Natural Language Processing (NLP).
• Proven experience in leading and coaching project teams.
• Thrives under pressure and maintains composure in fast-paced, agile environments.
• Passionate about customer experience, with an instinct to see the story behind the numbers.
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of developing and inspiring teams.
• Works collaboratively while confidently taking ownership when required.
• Highly organised, with the ability to estimate, priorities, and deliver work accurately and on time.
• Naturally curious and eager to explore new ideas, methods, and approaches.
• Positive, resilient, and solutions-oriented, with strong problem-solving capabilities.
• Detail-oriented.