Associate Director - Qualitative Research

Associate Director – Qualitative Research

We are looking to recruit a talented and motivated Associate Director to join the team from May/June 2026.

This is a key client‑facing role, ideal for an experienced qualitative researcher ready to take a step up in responsibility, with increased exposure to senior clients, project leadership and people development, while continuing to be hands‑on with research design, moderation and storytelling.

You will likely already be at Associate Director level or at an RPM level with a minimum of 4‑5 years’ experience. You will have considerable experience in qualitative research, and an understanding of quantitative research techniques and analysis.

You will work closely with Qualitative Directors and the wider senior team, contributing to high‑quality delivery, team development and the continued growth of the qualitative business.

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• Design, run and lead GDPR‑compliant qualitative research practices.
  
• Apply ESOMAR/MRS codes of conduct.
  
• Moderate a range of qualitative methodologies (groups, depth interviews, communities, ethnography, workshops, etc.).
  
• Frame research around human behaviour, culture and context.
  
• Translate insight into clear, actionable recommendations.
  
• Deliver strong storytelling, reporting and presentation.
  
• Organise and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  
• Leverage AI to support qualitative research.
  
• Build credible and positive client relationships.
  
• Integrate quantitative research with qualitative work.
  
• Support or mentor junior team members and contribute to team development.
  
• Possess agency experience.
  
• Support client retention and organic growth.
  
• Contribute to proposals and pitches.
  
• Spot opportunities to add value for clients.
  

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• Clear, confident and engaging communication.
  
• Strong judgement and decision‑making.
  
• Emotional intelligence and empathy.
  
• Adaptability and resilience in fast‑paced environments.
  
• Collaborative and solution‑oriented mindset.
  

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• Opportunity to help shape future direction of one of Ireland and UK’s leading insight & consultancy businesses.
  
• Involvement in a wide range of projects across media, FMCG, retail, travel & tourism, telecoms, banking, and public sector.
  
• Opportunity to work with worldwide leading experts via the WIN network.
  
• Supportive culture that encourages growth at all levels.
  
• Competitive remuneration package, including salary and performance‑related bonus.
  
• Hybrid working: 2 days per week in office, full flexi time with core hours 10am–4pm.
  
• Finish at 1pm every 2nd Friday (based on 9am start). xcfaprz
  
• Qualitative team gets additional time off to accommodate after‑hours groups.