Manager Qualitative Research | Morning Shift

Our client is a leading Market Research Agency dedicated to supporting all stakeholders within its ecosystem. They are seeking a Manager – Qualitative to lead and manage qualitative research projects from proposal development 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 stage to delivery, ensuring alignment with client objectives and business challenges. Develop research methodologies, review and approve project materials, and manage planning, resource allocation, timelines, budgets, and quality standards. Oversee multiple projects simultaneously, identify risks, and implement solutions to ensure smooth execution while adhering to organizational protocols.

Fieldwork Management & Moderation: Lead and moderate complex qualitative research methods such as Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), In-Depth Interviews (IDIs), ethnographic studies, online communities, observational research, and immersion studies. Guide moderators and field teams, oversee recruitment and vendor coordination, monitor fieldwork progress, and ensure adherence to research objectives and quality standards. Conduct quality checks and resolve operational issues as needed.

Analysis, Insight Generation & Strategic Thinking: Lead the analysis of qualitative data including transcripts, recordings, and observations. Identify key consumer motivations, behaviors, and cultural trends. Translate findings into clear, actionable insights and strategic recommendations that support client business objectives. Review team analyses to ensure accuracy and relevance, moving beyond reporting to deliver meaningful business implications.

Reporting & Client Deliverables: Develop high-quality research reports, presentations, and executive summaries with compelling narratives 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 stakeholders. Serve as a senior point of contact for assigned clients, understanding their businesses, industries, and research needs. Participate in client meetings, proposal discussions, and debriefs. Manage client expectations and identify opportunities to strengthen relationships and support repeat business.

Proposal Development & Business Growth: Support the creation of research proposals, including methodologies, timelines, and budgets. Contribute to pitch presentations and client meetings. Recommend qualitative approaches aligned with business objectives. Identify new research opportunities within existing clients and assist in business development efforts by preparing case studies and credentials.

Team Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and develop research team members by allocating responsibilities, reviewing performance, and providing coaching. Ensure project outputs meet quality standards and promote best practices. Encourage continuous improvement and foster collaboration across teams.

Required Qualifications

- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Marketing, Business, Social Sciences, Psychology, or related fields.
- 4–6 years of relevant experience in qualitative research, market research, or consumer insights.
- Strong hands-on experience with qualitative methodologies such as 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.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, including report writing, storytelling, and presentation.
- 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 with the ability to link research insights to business objectives.
- Proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel, and Word.

Other Details

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

This role offers an excellent opportunity to lead impactful qualitative research projects within a dynamic market research environment, contributing to both client success and organizational growth.