Research Manager

About the role

The serves as the strategic lead for flagship quantitative research initiatives, translating complex data into actionable business narratives. This role owns the end-to-end lifecycle of global B2B research projects, ensuring methodological rigor and timely delivery. The hire will champion advanced statistical techniques, applying them to real-world business questions while mentoring peers and junior analysts. They will act as the primary analytical authority for high-profile thought leadership campaigns, aligning data insights with editorial and commercial objectives. The position demands a passion for building robust, data-driven narratives that resonate across diverse markets. Close collaboration with editorial, commercial, and production teams will shape the future of the FT's research methodology and product innovation. Ultimately, this role defines the analytical standards that underpin the FT's authoritative global research offering.

Key facts

What you'll do

Design and execute sophisticated research methodologies, translating ambiguous business challenges into structured quantitative investigations.

Lead the full project lifecycle for flagship global studies, from initial scoping and questionnaire design through to data processing, analysis, and final delivery.

Apply advanced statistical techniques such as regression analysis, driver analysis, predictive modeling, weighting, segmentation, and index creation to extract high-value insights.

Translate complex statistical outputs into clear, compelling narratives for both technical and non-technical audiences, including clients and editorial stakeholders.

Collaborate closely with research, editorial, commercial, and project management teams to integrate insights into high-impact thought leadership campaigns.

Act as a trusted research advisor, guiding clients on research design, methodology selection, and interpretation of findings throughout the project lifecycle.

Leverage AI-enabled tools and emerging research technologies to streamline workflows, enhance analytical capability, and drive innovation in research practices.

Build and maintain strong relationships with research vendors, technology partners, and internal stakeholders to ensure project quality and efficiency.

Champion quality assurance processes, safeguarding the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of all research deliverables.

Proactively identify opportunities to enhance team capabilities, share knowledge, and contribute to the continuous evolution of research offerings.

Lead cross-functional initiatives that strengthen research standards, mentor junior colleagues, and support the professional growth of the team.

Set and monitor project KPIs, ensuring alignment with commercial objectives, budget constraints, and strategic priorities.

Explore and pilot new data sources, analytical tools, and visualization techniques to keep the research offering at the forefront of the industry.

Represent the FT's research excellence in external forums, contributing to the organization's reputation for authority and innovation.

Requirements

A minimum of five years' experience managing complex quantitative research projects within a research agency, consultancy, or similar environment.

Demonstrated expertise in conducting a wide range of advanced statistical analysis on survey data, including regression, driver analysis, segmentation, and predictive modeling.

You may currently or previously have held roles such as Quantitative Research Manager, Senior Research Executive, Research Consultant, or Insights Manager within research agencies or consultancies like Ipsos or Kantar.

Technical tool proficiency with survey platforms such as Decipher (or comparable tools), Google Workspace, and statistical analysis packages including SPSS, Q, R, or Python.

Proven ability to manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously, meeting strict deadlines while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain intricate analytical concepts to diverse audiences.

Strong problem-solving orientation, with a natural inclination to challenge assumptions and recommend optimal research approaches.

Highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of working independently with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.

A collaborative mindset, with a demonstrated history of working effectively across multidisciplinary teams and fostering productive partnerships.

Eagerness to continuously learn, embrace new technologies, and experiment with emerging research methodologies and AI-driven tools.

Supportive and development-focused, with a willingness to share knowledge and mentor less experienced colleagues.

Commitment to upholding the highest standards of data integrity, confidentiality, and ethical research practice.

Flexibility and adaptability in navigating ambiguous priorities and shifting business requirements.

Dedication to delivering work that reflects the FT's rigorous editorial standards and commercial expectations.

Nice to have

Prior experience in technology, telecommunications, or financial services research sectors.

Familiarity with advanced data visualization platforms and dashboarding tools.

Experience working within a hybrid or flexible work environment with distributed team coordination.

Practical notes

Hours, travel, visa, or deadlines stated in SOURCE.