Manager Qualitative Research | Morning Shift | Onsite Lahore

Our client, a leading Market Research Agency, is seeking a Manager – Qualitative to lead and manage qualitative research projects from inception through to final delivery. This role demands expertise in qualitative methodologies, strategic thinking, project management, client servicing, moderation, analysis, and team leadership. The successful candidate will oversee complex research assignments, generate actionable consumer and market insights, manage key client relationships, mentor team members, and contribute to business growth by delivering high-quality research solutions and exceptional client experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership & Execution: Lead qualitative research projects from proposal development to final delivery. Design research methodologies aligned with client objectives and business challenges. Review and approve discussion guides, screeners, and research frameworks. Ensure effective planning, resource allocation, budgeting, and adherence to timelines and quality standards. Manage multiple projects simultaneously, identify risks, and implement proactive solutions to ensure smooth execution.

Fieldwork Management & Moderation: Lead and moderate complex qualitative methodologies such as Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), In-Depth Interviews (IDIs), ethnographic studies, online communities, observational research, and immersion studies. Develop moderation strategies and guide moderators, interviewers, and field teams. Oversee recruitment, fieldwork planning, and vendor coordination to ensure timely and quality execution. Monitor progress, conduct quality checks, and resolve operational or quality issues.

Analysis, Insight Generation & Strategic Thinking: Lead the analysis and interpretation of qualitative data including transcripts, recordings, and field notes. Identify key consumer motivations, behaviors, needs, and cultural trends. Translate findings into clear, actionable, and commercially relevant insights. Develop strategic recommendations that support client business objectives. Review team analyses to ensure accuracy and relevance, ensuring outputs provide meaningful business implications beyond basic reporting.

Reporting & Client Deliverables: Oversee the creation of high-quality research reports, presentations, and executive summaries. Craft compelling narratives, storytelling frameworks, and visualizations. Ensure accuracy, quality, and strategic relevance of all deliverables. Present findings and recommendations to clients and senior stakeholders, addressing questions and facilitating clear communication of research implications.

Client Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and key stakeholders. Serve as a senior point of contact for assigned clients and projects. Understand client businesses, industries, and research needs. Participate in client meetings, proposal discussions, and research debriefs. Manage client expectations and identify opportunities to strengthen relationships and support repeat business.

Proposal Development & Business Growth: Support the development of research proposals, methodologies, timelines, and budgets. Contribute to pitch presentations and client meetings. Recommend appropriate qualitative approaches based on business objectives. Identify new research opportunities within existing accounts and assist in business development initiatives. Develop case studies and credentials to support growth efforts.

Team Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and develop research team members. Allocate project responsibilities based on skills and workload. Provide regular coaching and feedback. Review team outputs to ensure quality standards. Identify capability gaps and promote continuous learning and best practices. Foster collaboration across teams and functions.

Required Qualifications

- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Marketing, Business, Social Sciences, Psychology, or related fields.
- 4 to 6 years of relevant experience in qualitative research, market research, or consumer insights.
- Strong hands-on experience with qualitative methodologies including FGDs, IDIs, ethnography, observational research, online communities, and immersion studies.
- Proven project management and team leadership skills.
- Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
- Deep understanding of consumer behavior, psychology, cultural insights, and market dynamics.
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including report writing, storytelling, and presentations.
- Ability to confidently present insights and recommendations to clients and senior stakeholders.
- Strong client management and relationship-building capabilities.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
- Commercial acumen to link research insights with business objectives.
- Proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel, and Word.

Additional Details

- Experience Required: Minimum 5 years
- Location: Lahore (In-person)
- Working Days: Monday to Friday
- Working Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

This role offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment with a focus on delivering impactful qualitative research and fostering client relationships while leading a talented team.