Associate Director, Custom Research & Consulting

Job Description

• This position is posted by Jobgether on behalf of a partner company. We are currently looking for an Associate Director, Custom Research & Consulting in the United States. This leadership opportunity is ideal for a strategic research and consulting professional who is passionate about helping organizations solve complex talent and recruiting challenges through data-driven insights. The role focuses on leading customized research engagements that influence executive decision-making and shape talent acquisition strategies for major organizations. You will oversee end-to-end research projects, mentor a high-performing team, and collaborate closely with senior client stakeholders to design actionable solutions grounded in rigorous analysis. The position combines people leadership, client consulting, project management, and storytelling in a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment. Ideal candidates are highly analytical, consultative, and comfortable navigating ambiguity while driving operational excellence and research innovation. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to industry-shaping work while growing as a leader in a collaborative and mission-driven organization.
• Accountabilities: Lead and manage customized research and consulting engagements from project scoping through final delivery, ensuring high-quality outcomes that address complex client challenges. Serve as a trusted research advisor to employer partners by understanding their talent acquisition priorities and designing tailored research methodologies and strategic recommendations. Manage, mentor, and develop a team of researchers and project managers through regular coaching, performance feedback, and professional development support. Oversee project timelines, team workloads, and resource allocation to ensure efficient execution and consistent delivery of high-quality work. Translate quantitative and qualitative research findings into executive-ready presentations, narratives, and actionable insights that influence organizational decision-making. Present research findings and recommendations directly to senior and executive stakeholders with clarity, confidence, and strategic perspective. Drive continuous improvement initiatives related to survey administration, workflow optimization, data processing, automation, and operational efficiency. Establish and maintain research best practices, quality standards, and consistent methodologies across projects and teams. Collaborate cross-functionally with leadership, research teams, client service professionals, and other stakeholders to align priorities and maximize business impact. Contribute to the evolution of research capabilities, consulting frameworks, and innovative approaches that strengthen organizational expertise and client value. Requirements: 8+ years of experience in market research, consulting, talent acquisition, human capital, university recruiting, or related fields. Minimum of 2 years of people management or leadership experience with a demonstrated ability to coach and develop high-performing teams. Proven success managing complex client engagements and balancing multiple projects in fast-paced, client-focused environments. Strong consultative mindset with the ability to translate ambiguous business problems into structured research strategies and actionable recommendations. Exceptional analytical and storytelling skills, with experience synthesizing quantitative and qualitative data into compelling executive-level insights. Strong communication and presentation abilities with confidence engaging senior and executive stakeholders. High attention to detail and commitment to maintaining exceptional quality standards across all deliverables. Ability to thrive in ambiguous situations while building processes, improving workflows, and driving operational efficiency. Experience with research and analytics tools such as Qualtrics or similar survey platforms, statistical software, data visualization tools, Excel, and PowerPoint. Collaborative and adaptable approach with strong organizational, leadership, and cross-functional partnership skills. Must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship. Benefits: Competitive salary starting at $115,000+ annually based on experience and qualifications. Remote-first work environment within the United States with opportunities for in-person collaboration during team offsites and strategic planning sessions. Unlimited paid time off plus dedicated monthly mental health days. Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage. $1,000 annual wellness stipend to support personal well-being. 401(k) retirement plan with up to 4% employer matching contributions. Paid parental leave and family support benefits. Career development opportunities and exposure to high-impact strategic work. Inclusive and collaborative company culture focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, and employee growth. Access to employee resource groups, affinity groups, and initiatives supporting an equitable and supportive workplace environment.
• How Jobgether works: We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team. We appreciate your interest and wish you the best! Why Apply Through Jobgether? Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time. #LI-CL1
• We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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