Mixed Methods Research Manager

Optomi, in partnership with a premier client in the financial services and payments industry, is seeking an experienced Mixed Methods Research Manager professional to support a research and insights consulting practice. This team partners with major external clients across financial services, retail, travel, and other consumer industries to deliver research-driven insights and strategic recommendations. The role will support both qualitative and quantitative research, with a strong emphasis on hands-on quantitative research, advanced survey methodologies, data analysis, and translating findings into compelling client-facing stories and recommendations.

The Manager will lead mixed methods research projects, integrating quantitative and qualitative workstreams to deliver actionable insights for Fortune 500 clients. This role involves shaping research methodologies, synthesizing data into compelling narratives, and guiding client decisions. Ideal for someone deeply curious about consumer behavior and experienced in fast-paced consulting environments.

Contract Duration: 6+ months (starting with 6 months with potential to extend or convert to FTE)

What You Will Do:

• Lead end-to-end consumer and market research engagements for external clients
• Design and execute quantitative surveys and mixed-methods research studies
• Apply methodologies such as segmentation, conjoint, MaxDiff, TURF, concept testing, and cross-tab analysis
• Develop questionnaires and research approaches based on client objectives and business questions
• Partner with research vendors to manage fieldwork, quotas, data quality, and troubleshooting
• Analyze quantitative findings and identify patterns, trends, and actionable insights
• Integrate qualitative findings when appropriate to strengthen the overall research story
• Translate complex research and data into clear stories, visualizations, and strategic recommendations
• Develop polished, client-ready presentations and present findings directly to stakeholders
• Explain and defend research methodologies while adapting to client questions and changing project needs
• Manage multiple research engagements independently while collaborating with internal team members

The Right Candidate Will Have:

• 5–10+ years of experience in Consumer Insights, Market Research, Customer Insights, or a related research discipline
• Strong hands-on quantitative research experience , including survey design, data analysis, and interpretation
• Experience with advanced quantitative methodologies such as segmentation, conjoint, MaxDiff, TURF, and/or concept testing
• Strong mixed-methods research capabilities, with the ability to integrate qualitative and quantitative findings
• Proven ability to turn research findings and complex data into compelling stories, perspectives, and actionable business recommendations
• Strong client-facing experience, including presenting findings, discussing methodology, and consulting with stakeholders
• Experience in a research agency, consulting organization, research vendor, or client-side insights team
• Ability to independently own projects while collaborating effectively across teams
• Strong PowerPoint and Excel skills; experience with statistical or survey analysis tools is highly valued
• Experience using AI tools for research analysis, synthesis, or storytelling is a plus
• Excellent communication, presentation, and data visualization skills
• Client-first mindset with the flexibility to adapt as research needs evolve