What are the responsibilities and job description for the Qualitative Research Director position at PSB Insights?

Job Title :  Director, Qualitative Center of Excellence (Hybrid)

Reports To :  Vice President, Qualitative Center of Excellence

Location :  Washington DC, NYC, Denver, LA, Portland, or Seattle (in office minimum twice weekly)

PSB Insights : About PSB :

PSB Insights is a global research consultancy. Our mission : to bring decisions out of the dark for our clients. Our approach : disruptive methodologies, smarter working models, and a relentless pursuit of better decision-making. At PSB, research is a means to an end. We are focused on what our clients care about : Data-driven decisions. Breakthrough strategies. Stronger outcomes. We are a passionate team of 70 researchers, scientists, strategists, and storytellers who believe in the power of understanding to shape a better future. We hire critical thinkers. To learn from some of the best in the industry, read on.

About the Role :

PSB is seeking an intellectually curious and driven Director of Qualitative Research with a passion for uncovering the "why" on behalf of our clients. This role is for people who aspire to accelerate the design and execution of qualitative research projects, expertly extracting deep consumer insights through methods like focus groups, in-depth interviews, and observation, translating complex data into actionable strategic recommendations for clients by leveraging their expertise in qualitative methodologies. This role offers a unique opportunity to work meaningfully across our research teams and operate within the Qualitative Center of Excellence within PSB.

What you’ll do :

Leadership & Strategy :  Champion the value of qualitative research within PSB and externally. Support with the development and implementation of the strategic vision for the Qualitative Center of Excellence.
Project Leadership & Execution :  Oversee a portfolio of qualitative research projects, ensuring methodological rigor, timely delivery, and impactful insights. Provide expert guidance and mentorship to project teams. Support with the qualitative project execution as needed (instrument development, project management, moderation and report creation and delivery)
Client Relationship Management :  Cultivate and strengthen key client relationships, acting as a trusted advisor and strategic partner. Proactively identify opportunities to leverage qualitative research to address client challenges and drive business growth.
Team Management & Development :  Lead, inspire, and mentor a team of qualitative researchers, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and professional development. Provide regular feedback, coaching, and growth opportunities.
Methodological Expertise & Innovation :  Maintain deep expertise across a wide range of qualitative methodologies (e.g., in-depth interviews, focus groups, ethnography, online communities) and explore / implement emerging approaches.
Business Development & Marketing :  Contribute to business development by participating in client pitches, developing proposals, and identifying new business opportunities. Partner with marketing to promote qualitative capabilities.
Financial Management :  Effectively manage project budgets and resources, ensuring optimal utilization and profitability.

What you’ve done and enjoy doing :

Advanced degree in Marketing Research, Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, or a related field preferred.

6 years of experience in qualitative research, with a proven track record leading and managing complex projects.

Proven moderation expertise across various methodologies (in-person and online).

Exceptional communication, presentation, and storytelling skills, with the ability to translate complex findings into clear, compelling narratives.

Demonstrated leadership, team management, and mentorship skills.

Strong client management skills and a proven ability to build and maintain relationships.

Deep understanding of a wide range of qualitative research methodologies (traditional and emerging).

Experience with online qualitative research platforms and technologies. Experience with AI research tools.

Strong business acumen and a results-oriented approach.

Self-starter with a proactive, go-getter attitude and a passion for driving results.

Fluency in a second language is a plus.

Experience in technology, financial services, public policy, and / or government preferred.

Benefits :

Opportunity to work for a boutique consultancy and thought leaders focused on driving real change for clients

Competitive salary

Flexible vacation policy

Up to 12 weeks of parental leave

Full medical, dental, and vision packages

End of year weeklong company closure

401(k) with healthy company match

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