What Does a Research and Insights Manager Do? A Complete Career Guide for 2025
Understanding the Research and Insights Manager Role
A Research and Insights Manager plays a pivotal role in helping organizations make data-driven decisions by transforming raw data into actionable business intelligence. This strategic position bridges the gap between consumer behavior, market trends, and business strategy, making it essential across industries from tech and retail to finance and healthcare.
In today’s data-rich environment, these professionals are more valuable than ever, serving as the voice of the customer within their organizations and guiding everything from product development to marketing campaigns.
Core Responsibilities
Strategic Research Planning
Research and Insights Managers design and oversee comprehensive research programs that align with business objectives. Their responsibilities include:
- Developing research strategies that address key business questions
- Selecting appropriate methodologies (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods)
- Managing research budgets and allocating resources effectively
- Creating research roadmaps that prioritize projects based on business impact
Data Collection and Analysis
These professionals orchestrate various data collection efforts:
- Designing surveys, focus groups, and in-depth interviews
- Implementing conjoint analysis and other advanced research techniques using platforms like Conjointly for choice modeling and preference research
- Conducting competitive intelligence and market analysis
- Analyzing customer behavior data from multiple sources
- Synthesizing findings from primary and secondary research
Insight Generation and Storytelling
Raw data becomes valuable when transformed into compelling narratives:
- Identifying patterns and trends that inform business strategy
- Creating actionable recommendations based on research findings
- Developing presentations and reports for stakeholders at all levels
- Translating complex data into clear, accessible insights
Stakeholder Management
Research and Insights Managers serve as consultants to internal teams:
- Collaborating with product, marketing, and executive teams
- Educating stakeholders on research methodologies and limitations
- Presenting findings to C-suite executives and board members
- Building consensus around data-driven decisions
Team Leadership
Depending on the organization size, they may:
- Manage research analysts and coordinators
- Mentor junior team members
- Coordinate with external research agencies and vendors
- Foster a culture of curiosity and continuous learning
Essential Skills and Qualifications
Technical Competencies
- Statistical analysis: Proficiency in SPSS, R, Python, or similar tools
- Survey design: Experience with platforms like Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, or Conjointly
- Data visualization: Expertise in Tableau, Power BI, or similar software
- Market research methodologies: Understanding of both qualitative and quantitative approaches
- Database management: SQL knowledge for data extraction and manipulation
Soft Skills
- Communication: Ability to present complex findings to non-technical audiences
- Critical thinking: Asking the right questions and challenging assumptions
- Business acumen: Understanding how insights connect to business outcomes
- Project management: Juggling multiple projects with competing deadlines
- Curiosity: Innate desire to understand the “why” behind behaviors
Educational Background
Most Research and Insights Managers hold:
- Bachelor’s degree in marketing, psychology, statistics, business, or related fields
- Many possess master’s degrees (MBA, MS in Marketing Research, or MS in Data Analytics)
- Professional certifications from organizations like the Insights Association or Market Research Society
Industry Applications
Research and Insights Managers work across diverse sectors:
Technology: Understanding user experience, product-market fit, and feature prioritization
Retail and E-commerce: Analyzing shopping behavior, pricing strategies, and customer journey optimization
Financial Services: Researching customer satisfaction, brand perception, and product development
Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals: Conducting patient insights research and market access studies
FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods): Tracking brand health, advertising effectiveness, and consumer preferences
Salary Expectations by Market and Seniority
Compensation varies significantly based on location, industry, and experience level. Here’s a comprehensive overview:
| Market | Junior (0-3 years) | Mid-Level (4-7 years) | Senior (8+ years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore (SGD) | 60,000 - 85,000 | 85,000 - 130,000 | 130,000 - 180,000 |
| United States (USD) | 65,000 - 85,000 | 90,000 - 130,000 | 130,000 - 180,000+ |
| Canada (CAD) | 60,000 - 80,000 | 80,000 - 115,000 | 115,000 - 160,000 |
| Australia (AUD) | 75,000 - 95,000 | 95,000 - 140,000 | 140,000 - 190,000 |
| Philippines (PHP) | 600,000 - 900,000 | 900,000 - 1,500,000 | 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 |
| Thailand (THB) | 600,000 - 900,000 | 900,000 - 1,400,000 | 1,400,000 - 2,200,000 |
| United Kingdom (GBP) | 35,000 - 50,000 | 50,000 - 75,000 | 75,000 - 110,000 |
| Germany (EUR) | 45,000 - 60,000 | 60,000 - 85,000 | 85,000 - 120,000 |
| France (EUR) | 40,000 - 55,000 | 55,000 - 80,000 | 80,000 - 115,000 |
| Netherlands (EUR) | 45,000 - 62,000 | 62,000 - 88,000 | 88,000 - 125,000 |
Note: Salaries are annual base compensation and may not include bonuses, stock options, or other benefits. Figures are approximate and vary by company size, industry, and specific location.
Career Progression Path
The typical career trajectory includes:
- Research Analyst/Associate (Entry-level)
- Senior Research Analyst (2-4 years)
- Research and Insights Manager (4-7 years)
- Senior Insights Manager (7-10 years)
- Director of Insights/Research (10+ years)
- VP of Insights or Chief Insights Officer (15+ years)
Alternative paths may lead to roles in strategy consulting, product management, or marketing leadership.
Day-to-Day Activities
A typical day might include:
- Morning: Reviewing overnight survey results and checking data quality
- Mid-morning: Meeting with the product team to discuss upcoming user research
- Lunch: Networking with peers or attending an industry webinar
- Afternoon: Analyzing conjoint study results using specialized tools like Conjointly
- Late afternoon: Preparing a presentation for the executive team
- End of day: Reviewing vendor proposals and planning next week’s priorities
Future Outlook and Trends
The role continues to evolve with emerging technologies:
- AI and Machine Learning: Automating data analysis and predictive modeling
- Real-time insights: Moving from periodic studies to continuous intelligence
- Behavioral data integration: Combining stated preferences with observed behaviors
- Privacy-first research: Adapting to stricter data protection regulations
- Agile research methodologies: Faster, iterative approaches to insights generation
Is This Career Right for You?
Consider a Research and Insights Manager role if you:
- Enjoy solving complex business problems with data
- Have strong analytical skills combined with creativity
- Like working cross-functionally with diverse teams
- Are passionate about understanding human behavior
- Want to directly influence business strategy and outcomes
Getting Started
To break into this field:
- Build foundational skills in statistics, research methods, and data analysis
- Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level analyst positions
- Develop industry knowledge in sectors that interest you
- Create a portfolio showcasing research projects and insights
- Network actively through professional associations and industry events
- Stay current with emerging tools and methodologies, including platforms like Conjointly for advanced research techniques
Conclusion
Research and Insights Managers are strategic partners who transform data into business value. This rewarding career combines analytical rigor with creative problem-solving, offering excellent compensation and growth opportunities across industries and markets. As organizations increasingly recognize the importance of customer-centric decision-making, demand for skilled insights professionals continues to grow, making this an excellent career choice for data-savvy individuals who want to make a tangible impact on business success.