Senior Research Manager (Qualitative) (XM)

TL;DR

Senior Research Manager (Qualitative) (XM): Leading strategic insight projects to strengthen customer and employee experiences with an accent on qualitative research design and synthesis. Focus on converting complex data into actionable business recommendations and managing high-value client accounts.

Location: Remote (Must be based in the UK)

Company

SMG is an experience management (XM) partner providing an AI-native software platform and professional services to leading restaurant, retail, and consumer services brands.

What you will do

• Own the end-to-end research process from client brief interpretation to final presentation.
• Design screeners, questionnaires, and discussion guides for a range of project complexities.
• Synthesize qualitative findings into compelling insight stories and actionable business recommendations.
• Manage Elite/Advanced client accounts and maintain strong professional relationships.
• Collaborate on proposals, pitch materials, and Quarterly Business Reviews.
• Review and coach the work of other research team members to support quality and development.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional work experience.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in a client-facing qualitative research delivery role.
• Expertise in online qualitative research, including both data collection and analysis.
• Advanced knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and design.
• Proficiency with Excel, PowerPoint, and storytelling through insights.
• Must have valid work authorization and employment eligibility for the UK.

Nice to have

• Experience with research communities and/or panels.
• Background in supporting proposal development and pitch materials.
• Experience coaching and mentoring less experienced research team members.

Culture & Benefits

• Fully remote work environment.
• Unlimited PTO and extended parental leave.
• Company-issued equipment and tools.
• A culture built on connection, collaboration, and continuous improvement.