Qualitative Researcher

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 to delivery, developing methodologies aligned with client objectives. Review and approve discussion guides, screeners, and research frameworks. Manage project planning, resource allocation, timelines, budgets, and quality standards. Oversee multiple projects simultaneously, proactively addressing risks to ensure smooth execution and adherence to protocols.

Fieldwork Management & Moderation: Lead and moderate various qualitative methodologies 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, fieldwork planning, and vendor coordination. Monitor progress, ensure protocol compliance, conduct quality checks, and resolve operational issues.

Analysis, Insight Generation & Strategic Thinking: Analyze qualitative data including transcripts, recordings, and observations to identify 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, ensuring research outputs provide meaningful business implications beyond reporting.

Reporting & Client Deliverables: Develop high-quality research reports, presentations, and executive summaries with compelling narratives and visualizations. Ensure accuracy, quality, and strategic relevance of deliverables. Present findings and recommendations to clients and senior stakeholders, managing discussions and clarifying research implications.

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

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

Team Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and develop research team members by allocating responsibilities based on skills and workload. Provide coaching, feedback, and performance reviews. Ensure project outputs meet quality standards. Promote best practices, continuous improvement, and collaboration across teams.

Required Qualifications

- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Marketing, Business, Social Sciences, Psychology, or related field
- 4–6 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
- Strong 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 skills
- 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

Additional Details

- Experience Required: 5 years
- Location: Lahore
- Working Days: Monday to Friday
- Working Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

This role offers an opportunity to work with a prestigious market research agency known for delivering impactful insights and fostering professional growth within a collaborative environment.