Associate Director (Research) – Research Consulting Team
Hybrid (Newbury office + remote)
35 hours per week, full time
Fixed-Term Contract
Salary: £54,000 – £70,000 per annum (depending on experience)
About Vanson Bourne
At Vanson Bourne, we are specialists in B2B technology market research, partnering with some of the world’s leading organisations to navigate an increasingly complex and fast-moving landscape.
Our Research Consulting team sits at the forefront of this mission, combining deep sector expertise, innovative methodologies, and strategic thinking to deliver insight that drives real commercial impact. We don’t just report on change; we help our clients understand and shape it.
The Role
As an Associate Director, you will play a pivotal leadership role within the Research Consulting team, balancing hands‑on delivery of high‑impact research with driving innovation, team development, and strategic growth.
This is a role for someone who thrives in a fast‑evolving environment and is motivated by the opportunity to shape how research supports clients in the B2B technology market. You will lead from the front: inspiring teams, challenging conventional approaches, and elevating the impact of our work.
You will typically split your time between delivering best‑in‑class research and contributing to the broader leadership and evolution of the team.
Key Responsibilities
Client Leadership & Strategic Consulting
* Act as a senior client partner, building trusted, consultative relationships with global B2B technology clients
* Lead complex, multi‑market research programmes from design through to delivery
* Translate client challenges into innovative research solutions that drive strategic decision‑making
* Deliver impactful, story‑led outputs that connect data to commercial outcomes
Research Excellence & Innovation
* Oversee the design of advanced quantitative (and mixed‑method) research programmes
* Champion innovative methodologies, tools, and approaches to keep Vanson Bourne at the forefront of B2B research notably in the area of AI tools and automation to enhance research design, analysis, and delivery
* Turn complex data into compelling narratives that influence senior stakeholders
* Identify opportunities to evolve our offer in response to emerging technology trends (e.g. AI, data ecosystems, changing buyer behaviours)
Leadership & Team Development
* Line manage, mentor, and inspire a high‑performing team of researchers
* Foster a culture of curiosity, accountability, and continuous improvement
* Support capability building across the team, embedding best practice and new ways of working
* Lead by example in delivering excellence, collaboration, and commercial awareness
Driving Growth & Direction
* Partner with the Research Director to shape and execute the strategic direction of the Research Consulting team
* Play a leading role in driving innovation initiatives, including new methodologies, tools, and AI‑enabled approaches
* Contribute to proposals, pitches, and thought leadership that strengthen Vanson Bourne’s market position
* Identify new opportunities for growth, innovation, and client value creation
* Support resource planning, team structure, and operational efficiency
Process Improvement & Thought Leadership
* Proactively identify and implement improvements to research processes and delivery frameworks, including AI‑driven efficiencies and automation
* Develop content, frameworks, and perspectives that reinforce Vanson Bourne’s reputation as an industry leader
* Contribute to external‑facing outputs such as whitepapers, webinars, and events
About You
You are a driven, forward‑thinking research leader who combines strong technical expertise with commercial acumen and a passion for innovation.
You bring:
* Significant experience in quantitative research within an agency or consulting environment
* Proven ability to lead complex research programmes and deliver strategic insight
* A strong consultative mindset with experience managing senior client relationships
* Exceptional storytelling skills—able to turn data into clear, compelling narratives
* Demonstrated leadership experience, including line management and team development
* A proactive, solutions‑oriented approach with the confidence to challenge and innovate
* Strong understanding of, or interest in, B2B technology markets and emerging trends
* Strong interest in, and practical experience with, applying AI to improve research outcomes and efficiency
* Excellent organisational, communication, and stakeholder management skills
What You’ll Gain
* The opportunity to shape research that influences global B2B technology leaders
* A leadership role in a dynamic, growing team where your impact is visible
* Exposure to cutting‑edge topics, methodologies, and industry challenges
* Ongoing professional development in consulting, strategy, and innovation
* The chance to help define the future of research at Vanson Bourne
Our benefits package includes
* Flexible hybrid working– with at least 2 days a week in our central Newbury office
* Generous holiday allowance– 25 days plus bank holidays, increases with length of service (up to 30 days)
* Company performance bonus– recognising your contribution and impact
* Company pension scheme– helping you plan for the future
* Health cash plan– to look after your health and peace of mind
* Life assurance (Death in Service)– providing additional security for your loved ones
* Team culture– regular social events and activities to connect and celebrate together
* Employee referral bonus– £1,000 for successful recommendations
* Office Parking.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, and we’re proud to be building an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
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