Part-time Research Manager

C2’s client, one of the world’s leading, largest, and most trusted associations to support funeral professionals, is hiring a Part-time Research Manager to assist with conducting studies for their unique industry. This individual will be responsible for conducting major industry studies, evaluating the association’s internal operations and overseeing a one-time opportunistic study. They also will occasionally collaborate with universities and suppliers.

Under supervision of the CMO, this individual will devise appropriate methods and procedures to obtain relevant quantitative and qualitative data about association operations and the funeral service industry. They will compile, analyze, organize, and report on data to create accurate research that will assist association leaders and management with fiscal, program, and policy decision-making in accordance with the association’s strategic plan.

Start Date: As soon as they find the right candidate

Duration: Direct Hire, Part Time (approximately 24 hours per week)

Location: Onsite in Brookfield, WI

Compensation: $35,000 to $45,000 per year

Job Description:

• Coordinate and schedule all internal research activities in accordance with strategic goals of the association
• Develop and maintain an in-depth understanding of the funeral service profession, including students, employees, business owners, consumers, retirees, and associated businesses
• Gather and interpret industry data and competitor development, which may include product and service offerings, data and statistics
• Use general trend analysis practices and procedures to produce organization and industry trend reports based on review of relevant trade and association publications, industry reports, academic studies, white papers, national press articles, etc., at preset intervals
• Gather data and statistics on association program and service performance, including satisfaction levels with policies, positions, programs, products, services, and events; membership demographics, preferences, needs, and opinions; customer, vendor, and affiliate satisfaction levels; and other measurable performance aspects of operations as requested
• Coordinate approved research projects: determine best methods to gather necessary information; develop and test surveys; implement surveys; obtain and compile data; analyze data and statistical research findings using accepted classification criteria; report on results, incorporating relevant longitudinal study data and statistics when available.
• Write top-line, executive summary, and final reports and conclusions based on research findings
• Build an annual research budget and carefully manage expenditures to remain within budget and meet essential goals
• Collect competitive data on professional development/continuing education courses, programs, seminars, conferences, events and certification program/s to assist the Education and Meetings Division with strategic planning
• Maintain database of significant existing association data and statistical knowledge through review of various source materials including computer documents, in-house records, historical files, and publications
• Write clear, insightful, error-free analyses synthesizing hard data, questionnaire and interview-derived information, historical data, and secondary research from internal and external sources into cohesive, significant findings
• In coordination with other departments, develop and maintain integrated database/s of significant industry and association data that can easily be accessed and navigated by staff, leadership, members, and the public
• Recommend new strategic research projects to address gaps in association knowledge base as may be necessary; on approval, implement projects
• May coordinate and conduct survey research with other organizations and for external clients as directed.
• Determine if outside research projects benefit the association members or generate additional revenue for the association
• Develop proposals to work with qualitative/quantitative vendors as necessary
• Promote and assist in carrying out the Association’s mission, vision, and goals in a manner consistent with the Association’s stated values
• Exhibit flexible and innovative approaches while performing essential responsibilities and assignments
• Embrace and actively participate in a variety of work teams as requested or assigned
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications & Requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree in research-based or related discipline such as Sociology or Psychology
• At least 5-10 years of experience in a research-related field
• Requires SPSS, Survey Monkey or other survey design software, and Office 365 proficiency
• Knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods, including knowledge of sample planning, survey design and data analysis
• Ability to learn critical issues in new topic areas and to quickly apply this evolving understanding to work
• Extraordinary attention to precision data analysis and to detail in all facets of work
• Team-oriented and willing to take direction from – and contribute to – larger project teams
• Independent problem-solver
• Ability to think creatively and analytically
• Ability to manage time and multiple projects to meet deadlines
• Clear, professional communication skills including exceptional writing capabilities
• Some travel may be required

Not your type of gig, but know someone who would be interested? Refer a qualified candidate, and if they get the job, you get a signing bonus! (Make sure they mention your name as their referral source so you get your well-deserved credit!)

All candidates must be located and authorized to work in the United States. C2 does not sponsor work visas. No C2C.