Associate Director (Winston-Salem / North Carolina based)

Who We Are Escalent is an AI-enabled insights and expert advisory firm grounded in deep industry expertise. Our company includes C Space, Hall & Partners, Cogent Syndicated and Javelin Strategy & Research, each adding specialized expertise to what we deliver together. Across our brands, we share a standard for how we work, grow and create impact—and the experience we want clients to have: to see human truth and AI power come together, feel a step ahead of change, know they’re working with the best in the business, and act with confidence. That’s the Escalent Standard: talented people doing their best work, together, to make a meaningful difference. Role Overview We're seeking an Associate Director who thrives on leading projects, builds lasting client relationships, turns insights into compelling storylines, and collaborates with teams in the UK and India to deliver the kind of client experience that generates repeat business. This role will be a Client-Dedicated Associate Director - the operational backbone and primary client-facing contact for a high-profile, always-on panel research program run on behalf of a client. This is a unique, embedded role that blends hands-on operational excellence with day-to-day client relationship management. The program you could lead involves an internal employee panel of product testers who participate in different type of product testing studies throughout the year. You will be the person who makes those studies happen — from on-site logistics and kit management oversight to study coordination, participant communication, and ensuring a seamless experience for both the client and the participants. Location & Travel: This role is based in North Carolina. You will be on-site at the client’s facility in Winston-Salem approximately 3–4 days per week for the first 2–3 months (migration and launch phase), then transitioning to roughly 1 week per month aligned with study execution cycles (~12–15 studies per year). Base salary range for this role is $80,000 - $120,000. If this is not the right range for you, please check out our other openings. This position is based in North Carolina, in or driving distance to Winston-Salem. What You’ll Do Operational Execution & Logistics (Primary Focus) Own end-to-end execution of each product test study — typically 12–15 studies per year, each running approximately 3–5 weeks, depending on their complexityProcure product samples and all packaging and kit materials needed for each study (expensed back to Escalent)Oversee and or assist with test kit assembly following precise instructions, maintaining strict quality control throughoutManage on-site kit distribution at the client’s facility, ensuring each participating employee receives the correct assigned kitTrack individual employee participation throughout each study waveCoordinate the collection and return of test materials at study closeDesign and maintain detailed project plans; manage timelines closely across concurrent workstreamsCoordinate with Escalent's research and community teams to keep every study on trackMonitor panelist engagement and flag any issues early; help maintain a healthy, active communitySupport the migration from the current vendor platform to Escalent's proprietary platform during the onboarding phase (approx. weeks 1–8) Client Relationship Management Serve as the primary day-to-day contact for the client’s teamBuild a trusted, proactive working relationship with client stakeholders — being responsive, organized, and solutions-orientedCommunicate clearly on study status, timelines, and any issues; escalate and problem-solve quickly when neededParticipate in regular client check-ins and status meetings; prepare concise updates and agendasManage client expectations with confidence — including pushing back constructively when timelines, scope, or requests need to be realignedCollaborate with the broader Escalent account team (Strategic Advisors, Research Team, Tech Support) to ensure the client experience is seamless Research & Program Support Support the broader Escalent central delivery research team in study design, participant recruitment coordination, and fieldwork managementHelp synthesize participation data and flag insights relevant to panel health and program performanceContribute to insight summaries and review decks as needed, in partnership with the central delivery research teamIdentify opportunities to improve and evolve the program over time — from process automation to logistics improvements Qualifications Must be based in North Carolina within commutable distance to Winston-Salem. Experience 5+ years of experience in market research, consumer insights, project management, or a closely related fieldDemonstrated experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects from end to end — detail-oriented, deadline-driven, and calm under pressureExperience in client-facing roles; comfortable managing relationships and having direct, professional conversations with clientsPrior experience with research operations, logistics, or fieldwork coordination is a strong plusFamiliarity with consumer insight communities or panel management platforms is a plus (training on our proprietary platform will be provided) Skills & Mindset Exceptional organizational and project management skills — you thrive on getting things right, on time, every timeA hands-on, can-do attitude: you are not above assembling kits, driving to a site, or solving an unexpected logistical problem the morning of a studyStrong interpersonal skills — warm, professional, and credible with client stakeholders at multiple levelsConfident communicator who can push back tactfully and manage expectations without losing the relationshipCuriosity and a learning mindset — eager to grow into a broader consulting role over timeProficiency in Microsoft Office (particularly Excel and Outlook/calendar management); experience with project tracking tools a plus Compensation, Benefits, And Culture Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance - Large carriers on a national level (domestic partner coverage included)401k with Company MatchFlexible PTO - Feel no guilt in taking off a minimum of 3 weeks of “real” vacation timePaid Parental Leave12 Paid Company HolidaysBase salary range for this role is $80,000 - $120,000 (determined by level of experience) Where required by applicable state or local law, the base pay for this position will be no less than the applicable minimum wage. Actual compensation will be determined based on the applicable legal requirements, as well as the candidate's qualifications, experience, and location. Equal Opportunity Employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status