Senior Research Consultant – Primary Research

About the role

This is a hybrid position based in Chicago for a Senior Consultant on the Primary Research team. The role involves developing client relationships, designing and executing proprietary quantitative and qualitative studies, and creating actionable, data-driven insights. Candidates should have at least five years of experience and demonstrate skills in critical thinking, presentation, and project management.

Responsibilities

• Data Synthesis and Insights Generation: Utilize advanced analytical techniques to analyze complex datasets, extract meaningful insights, organize information, draw conclusions, identify patterns, and communicate key points succinctly.
• Presentation: Present findings to clients clearly and compellingly, facilitate discussions, address client queries, craft strategic narratives, and provide solid recommendations. Welcome public speaking opportunities at industry events, special initiatives, and through writing articles or blogs.
• Collaborating: Work with account managers and the consulting team to win business and build client relationships. Collaborate across Mintel divisions such as sales, marketing, research analytics, and operations to deliver best-in-class custom work.
• Engaging with Clients: Serve as the main point of contact for clients, communicating effectively with a wide range of industries and positions (Directors, VPs, and C-suite). Build and maintain strong client relationships to ensure satisfaction and loyalty.
• Research Project Management:
  • Scope client briefs using second and third-level questioning to deeply understand client needs.
  • Design and pitch the most appropriate Mintel Consulting solution for each client challenge.
  • Lead the execution of custom research projects, including coaching the project team and managing timelines and budgets.
  • Manage research projects across multiple industries from kick-off to completion, including questionnaire design, data analysis, and final reporting.
  • Analyze complex data to provide insightful implications and actionable recommendations within the context of the client’s business objectives and competitive environment.
  • Stay updated on industry trends, market dynamics, and competitor landscapes.
  • Innovate by developing new products/services with clients, new ways of working, and new research tools.
• Work effectively both independently and collaboratively, multi-tasking on several projects to meet deadlines. Peer mentor Consultants when collaborating.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of experience managing primary custom marketing research projects.
• High level of proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint.
• Strong analytical capabilities, attention to detail, and excellent professional writing and communication skills.
• Experience with tools such as Q, SPSS, SAS, or other cross-tabulation and statistics tools is strongly preferred.

Qualifications

• Commercially-Minded: Demonstrated talent for abstract thinking, spotting trends and patterns, an instinct for commercial opportunities, and a nuanced understanding of consumer insights.
• A Storyteller: Lateral thinker and intuitive dot-connector with experience weaving compelling narratives through data across a wide range of categories.
• Data-Driven: Solid familiarity with most forms of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies and working knowledge of when and how to apply them to client challenges. Expertise in working with complex data sets.
• Naturally Curious: Drawn to knowing the “why” behind things and skilled at navigating client conversations, asking second and third-level questions to uncover clients’ challenges and goals.
• An Influencer: Experience with and expertise in primary research methodologies and the ability to engage others with energy, intellect, humility, and passion.
• A Great Communicator: Ability to visualize strategic thought in evocative and engaging presentations, delivered with confidence and authority. Adapt communication style to suit each client and internal business partner.
• A Collaborator: Pride in teamwork and the ability to cultivate professional relationships. Constantly finding innovative ways to create an exceptional work environment.

Pay

The base salary range for this role is $64,000 USD to $80,000 USD. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on skills, experience, and qualifications.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts.
• Employer-paid life and disability insurance.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Paid time off.
• Flexible working hours.
• ClassPass subsidy.
• Mental health benefit through Modern Health.
• Paid volunteer time off.
• Paid birthday leave.
• Paid parental leave.