Manager of Consumer Research

Manager, Consumer Research

Location: Irvine, CAWork Arrangement: Hybrid, 3 days onsite and up to 2 days remote

Employment Type: Full-Time, ExemptSalary Range: $100,000 to $120,000 per yearBonus EligibleCompany OverviewA well-established global consumer products company is seeking a Manager of Consumer Research to support its North American business.

This position will play an important role in identifying consumer, shopper, customer, and market insights that support brand development, marketing strategy, product innovation, and overall business growth.The Manager will work closely with cross-functional teams, senior leadership, and global counterparts to translate research and market data into clear, actionable recommendations.Position SummaryThe Manager of Consumer Research will lead and support a variety of consumer and market research initiatives, using both quantitative and qualitative methodologies.This role requires strong analytical skills, business acumen, and the ability to communicate research findings clearly to internal stakeholders.Key ResponsibilitiesLead consumer, shopper, and market research projects supporting business and brand strategyIdentify business opportunities through consumer, market, and competitive analysisPlan and manage primary and secondary research using qualitative and quantitative methodologiesSupport brand strategy, segmentation, market understanding, and product innovation initiativesConduct or manage concept testing, package testing, product validation, and related innovation researchAnalyze and synthesize information from multiple data sources into actionable business recommendationsLeverage syndicated data such as POS, panel, consumer trend, and other market dataPartner closely with Marketing, Sales, and other internal teams to ensure research supports business prioritiesSupport U.S. market research for broader global initiativesManage external research agencies, project timelines, and budgetsPresent research findings and recommendations to management and key stakeholdersHelp develop new research capabilities, tools, and best practicesUtilize AI tools where appropriate to improve research, analysis, and insight developmentQualificationsBachelor's degree requiredMinimum 5 years of experience in consumer insights, market research, marketing analytics, or a related fieldExperience working in a consumer products, food, retail, research agency, or consulting environment preferredStrong experience with quantitative consumer researchExperience with qualitative research and translating findings into business insightsExperience using POS and panel data such as Circana, Nielsen, Numerator, or similar sourcesStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsAbility to combine multiple data sources and develop clear recommendationsStrong project management and presentation skillsExcellent communication and stakeholder management skillsExperience working with cross-functional or global teams preferredProficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and WordExperience with SPSS, R, or other statistical tools is preferredExperience using AI tools for research or analytics is preferredJapanese language ability is a plus but not requiredPreferred BackgroundExperience in consumer packaged goods, food, beverage, retail, or other consumer-focused industriesExperience supporting brand strategy, shopper insights, product innovation, or portfolio analysisExperience managing external research agencies and multiple concurrent projectsBenefitsMedical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, and long-term disability insurance401(k) with employer matchBonus programHybrid work arrangement