Program Director, Market Research

Job DescriptionProgram Director, Market ResearchLocation: West Coast (San Francisco, Seattle)Level: Senior / DirectorSalary: 150-160k base + benefits, bonus, etc.Role OverviewThe Program Director, Market Research is the operating and strategic backbone of a high-impact, multi-workstream research and growth initiative. This role exists to ensure that market research strategy translates into disciplined execution, clear priorities, and measurable business impact.This is a senior, highly visible role for someone who thrives at the intersection of market research, strategy, and operations. You will work closely with executive leaders, research teams, and cross-functional partners to align research programs with client growth priorities, innovation efforts, and long-term market opportunity development.If you excel at bringing structure to complexity, driving momentum across teams, and turning insight into action, this role is built for you.What You'll Do1. Research Program Leadership & Operating CadenceOwn and run the operating rhythm for large, multi-stakeholder market research programsEstablish clear governance, meeting cadences, decision forums, and follow-through mechanismsBuild agendas, pre-reads, action logs, and decision frameworksEnsure leaders and teams stay aligned, focused, and accountable2. Integrated Roadmap & Execution ManagementOwn the integrated roadmap across:Strategic market research initiativesClient growth and account prioritiesInnovation and new solution developmentResearch capability and talent evolutionTrack milestones, dependencies, risks, and outcomesSurface issues early and drive resolution across teams3. Insight, Reporting & Executive StorytellingTranslate research activity and results into clear executive-level narrativesBuild dashboards and updates that connect insights to business outcomesSynthesize what's working, what's not, and what decisions are neededPrepare executive-ready communications for senior leadership and stakeholders4. Cross-Functional Coordination ("Air Traffic Control")Act as the connective tissue across:Market research teamsClient leadership and growth functionsMarketing, innovation, and operations partnersReduce duplication, friction, and misalignmentEnsure research priorities show up in account strategies, innovation roadmaps, and client engagements5. Activation, Forums & Thought Leadership EnablementLead the operational execution of research-driven activations, including:Client forums and executive briefingsThought leadership events and innovation showcasesInternal leadership sessionsEnsure events and activations drive tangible outcomes:Deeper client relationshipsOpportunity creationStrategic alignment6. Strategic Partner to Senior LeadershipServe as a trusted extension of senior research and business leadersAnticipate needs, pressure-test thinking, and bring structure to visionEnable leaders to stay focused on client impact, strategic narrative, and external influenceRequirementsWhat You Bring8-12+ years of experience in market research, strategy, consulting, operations, or program leadershipExperience leading complex initiatives in matrixed, fast-moving organizationsStrong understanding of how market research drives:Client decision-makingGrowth strategyInnovation and product developmentYou are exceptional at:Orchestration, prioritization, and follow-throughExecutive communication and storytellingNavigating ambiguity with confidence and calmInfluencing without formal authorityYou bring:High ownership and accountabilityA bias for actionComfort working with senior leaders and client-facing teamsThe ability to make complex programs feel clear, focused, and achievableHow Success Is MeasuredResearch programs run with clear cadence, discipline, and momentumLeaders experience the work as focused, organized, and easy to engage withProgress, risks, and results are consistently visibleInsights translate into measurable client and business impactResearch initiatives elevate strategic influence across the organizationBenefits150-160k + benefits, bonus, etc. Benefits:Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options401(k) retirement plan with employer matchPaid time off, including vacation, sick time, paid holidays, and a birthday day offPaid parental leaveFlexible Spending Accounts (FSA)Employee Assistance Program (EAP)Well-being reimbursement for wellness-related expensesFlexible and hybrid work arrangements (role dependent)Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunitiesOngoing learning, training, and career development programsInclusive workplace with diversity, equity, and inclusion initiativesWhy This Role MattersThis role shapes how market research moves from insight to impact. You won't just manage programs-you'll enable better decisions, stronger execution, and sustained growth at the highest levels.

Created: 2026-04-02