Communications Research & Evaluation Manager

About Our Client

Our client is an elite, woman-owned research and management consulting firm specializing in communications research, evaluation, and analytics. Founded in 2003, the organization employs approximately 200 professionals, including communicators, behavioral scientists, academic researchers, and senior analysts. The company serves federal agencies, private-sector organizations, and nonprofit institutions, delivering data-driven research and evaluation services that support public health campaigns, public relations initiatives, and strategic communications programs. The organization has been recognized by the National Association for Business Resources (NABR) as one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in both 2024 and 2025.

About the Opportunity

The Communications Research & Evaluation Manager is a leadership role responsible for overseeing complex communications research and evaluation projects. This position serves as a principal investigator and technical lead, managing mixed-methods research studies, message testing initiatives, and audience segmentation analyses designed to measure the effectiveness of strategic communications efforts. The role translates complex research findings into actionable recommendations that support federal outreach initiatives, optimize media investments, and improve communication outcomes. The Manager will also supervise research staff, manage project execution, and ensure the quality and accuracy of all deliverables.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage communications evaluation projects, including message testing, public awareness campaigns, and outreach effectiveness studies.
• Provide technical guidance on research design, sampling methodologies, and analytical approaches.
• Coordinate internal teams and external partners throughout the full project lifecycle.
• Manage project scope, timelines, deliverables, budgets, and quality standards.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop research and analyst team members.
• Create and maintain detailed project plans, milestones, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Oversee data collection activities, survey design, focus groups, qualitative research, and statistical analysis.
• Synthesize qualitative and quantitative findings into executive-level reports and presentations.
• Present research findings and recommendations to clients and stakeholders.
• Support business development efforts, including proposal writing and methodology development.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and research quality.
• Establish and maintain quality assurance procedures for all project deliverables.
• Perform additional research, analytical, and strategic duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences, Public Health, Communications Research, Statistics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in research, analytics, or program evaluation.
• At least 6 years of experience leading qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods research projects.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in communications research, media analysis, or messaging evaluation.
• At least 2 years of project management experience overseeing research timelines, budgets, and resources.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook.
• Strong client management and stakeholder communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.

Pay Range & Compensation

Annual base salary: $102,413 - $117,774 USD. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, education, qualifications, and relevant research expertise.

Benefits & Perks

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching
• Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays
• Flexible and remote-friendly work arrangements
• Professional development and continuing education support
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Wellness and mental health resources