Kantar - Account Manager - Qualitative Research - Consumer Insights Team

Account Manager - Qualitative Bangalore

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Account Manager - Qualitative Research to join our high-performing Consumer Insights team. In this role, you will lead qualitative research engagements end-to-end, manage client relationships, and drive actionable insights. You will also be responsible for mentoring junior researchers, ensuring high-quality project delivery, and contributing to strategic growth initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Client & Account Management:

- Own and manage qualitative research projects from proposal to delivery.

- Act as the primary client contact, managing stakeholder expectations and building strong, trusted partnerships.

- Lead client discussions and presentations, providing strategic consultation and recommendations.

Research Design & Execution:

- Design research frameworks using traditional and modern qualitative methodologies including focus groups, in-depth interviews (IDIs), ethnographic studies, and online communities.

- Moderate focus groups and conduct fieldwork with sensitivity, professionalism, and cultural awareness.

- Analyze complex data sets and translate insights into compelling, actionable stories.

Team & Project Leadership

- Lead and mentor a team of junior researchers and associates to build a high-performing, motivated team.

- Ensure timely, high-quality project execution in alignment with client needs and business goals.

- Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture.

Innovation & Thought Leadership:

- Champion new-age research tools including AI-enabled analytics, qualitative dashboards, and digital platforms.

- Contribute to capability development within the team through knowledge sharing and upskilling.

- Stay up to date on industry trends, consumer behavior shifts, and emerging methodologies.

Education & Experience:

- Postgraduate degree in Marketing, Sociology, Psychology, or a related field.

- 5 to 8 years of hands-on experience in qualitative consumer insights, preferably within the domains of FMCG, Automotive, and E-commerce.

Skills & Competencies:

- Proven expertise in qualitative research techniques - moderating, ethnographic research, online methodologies, and workshop facilitation.

- Strong analytical and storytelling skills with the ability to derive meaning from diverse information sources.

- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

- Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.