Sample Manager – Market Research Operations
Company: Research Results
Location: Fitchburg, MA or Remote/Virtual
Hours/Schedule: Full Time
Compensation: Commensurate with Experience/Skillset
JOB DESCRIPTION
Position Function
As a Sample Manager at Research Results, you will take ownership of sourcing, negotiating, and managing online sample for market research projects. You will play a critical role in ensuring the success of studies by consulting on audience targeting, determining feasibility, calculating CPI, and selecting the ideal partner mix. This position is ideal for someone who has experience on the buy-side, as you’ll work closely with internal teams to design and procure the best samples based on our clients’ needs.
Position Responsibilities:
- Consult on Target Audiences: Work with Account Managers and Clients to assess project needs and propose optimal sample sources for hard-to-reach and general population audiences.
- Sample Feasibility & Pricing: Provide accurate pricing (CPIs) and feasibility studies based on project specifications, targeting criteria, and incidence rates.
- Vendor Negotiations: Negotiate with sample providers to ensure cost efficiency, data quality, and reliable sample availability.
- Partner Mix & Strategy: Determine the right blend of sample partners for each project, balancing speed, quality, and cost.
- Escalation Point for Complex Issues: Serve as a point of escalation for performance issues, quality concerns, and any challenges that arise during data collection.
- Onboard New Partners: Assess and onboard new panel and sample partners to diversify sources and improve data quality.
- Support Fieldwork Teams: Collaborate with Field Managers on ongoing fieldwork and troubleshooting efforts, stepping in for strategic changes as necessary.
- Assist with Proposals: Provide sample-related information to support client proposals and ensure proper planning for data collection.
Job Requirements:
Core skills and qualifications include:
- Experience: 5+ years of experience in sample procurement and management within the market research industry, with a preference for candidates who have worked on the buy-side (client or agency-facing roles managing sample sourcing).
- Industry Knowledge: Understanding of panel dynamics, audience profiling, incidence rates, and quota management.
- Negotiation Skills: Proven experience negotiating with online sample providers, balancing cost with quality.
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to assess project needs, review data quality, and optimize sample blends to meet client goals.
- Technical Skills: Familiarity with DIY sample platforms such as CINT Marketplace, PureSpectrum, and similar tools.
- Problem Solving: Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to manage complex sample performance issues.
- Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external partners.
Preferred Experience:
- Buy-side experience with a focus on sample procurement, including consulting, vendor management, or audience targeting.
- Experience working with a variety of audience types, including B2B, healthcare professionals (HCPs), and custom recruitment strategies.
WHY JOIN US?
- Industry Leadership: Join a team recognized for exceeding expectations and delivering high-quality results in a competitive market.
- Collaborative Environment: Work closely with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment that encourages problem-solving and innovation.
- Career Growth: We are committed to helping you grow professionally through mentorship and hands-on experience with some of the industry’s leading brands.
If you are an experienced Sample Manager looking for a challenging and rewarding role, we’d love to hear from you!
How to Apply:
Submit your resume and a brief cover letter to Jeremy_Engelin@researchresults.com, explaining why you’d be a great fit for our team.