Director, Research & Insights

FGS Global, a leading global strategic communications advisory firm with 30 offices across the global and over 1300 professionals, is seeking an experienced public opinion research and communications professional to join the firm’s Research & Insight practice. The Research & Insight practice at FGS Global draws on a range of methodologies to inform communications strategy and messaging for a variety of clients. Our work tells clients what key stakeholders are thinking, how to prioritize their efforts, and how to communicate most effectively. This position will be based in our Washington, DC office.

The successful candidate will have experience conducting polling and public opinion research and translating those findings into insightful and actionable recommendations. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting research that supports issue advocacy campaigns, crisis communications, public policy debates, and other political/public affairs topics. Experience with qualitative and quantitative methodologies is required, and the ability to interpret advanced statistical analysis is highly preferred. Understanding of the latest social media, AI, and analytics tools is strongly encouraged.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serves as the day-to-day project manager for multiple accounts with a wide range of methodologies, working closely with other FGS Global teams in strategic communications and government relations and serving as an initial point of contact for clients on research
• Manages qualitative, quantitative, analytics and digital research plans including proposal development, instrument design, analysis, and presentation design
• Reports to Research & Insight Partners and Managing Directors and works closely with junior staff and external research vendors to conduct all aspects of research
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with account teams across FGS Global (strategic communications, government relations, advertising, and content) to provide insight on time and on budget
• Contributes insights and recommendations confidently and effectively to high level stakeholders
• Follows and reports on new industry trends and best practices
• Contributes to new business proposals and presentations

QUALIFICATIONS

• A BA/BS degree in a related field and 7-10 years of experience in public opinion polling/market research is required. An advanced degree in a related field preferred
• Experience leading and managing the execution of polling, focus groups, and online discussions, including moderating both in-person and online focus groups.
• Interest in or familiarity with social and digital analytics tools and analysis
• Experience at a communications agency is strongly preferred
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Extremely organized, detailed-oriented, and collaborative, but able to work independently in a fast-paced environment
• Strong strategic thinker with an understanding of how the larger economic, political, and public policy landscape impacts clients’ communications abilities and needs
• Ability to think broadly about the potential applications of research to different communications challenges, and ability to clearly communicate those insights
• Demonstrated capacity for leadership, communication, and teamwork, including the ability to multitask in a dynamic and fast-paced environment
• Strong interpersonal skills, and ability to manage a small team
• Superior judgement in managing confidential, sensitive information and projects

What We Offer:

• Competitive compensation package.
• Great health benefits, including medical, dental and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with a 50% matching program.
• Generous time off benefits.
• A collaborative group of smart, passionate and highly motivated people.
• Team-oriented work environment structured to provide opportunities for professional growth and development.

In Washington, D.C., the base salary for this position at the time of this posting may range from $100k—$150k USD. Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors, including business needs, experience, level of responsibility and qualifications.

We offer medical, dental and vision plans, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability and AD&D plans, 401(k) with company matching contribution, technology reimbursement, discretionary bonuses, and paid time off to eligible full-time employees.

FGS Global provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to United States federal law requirements, FGS Global complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.

When you submit an application, we collect certain personal information about you for the purpose of evaluating your qualifications for the position. For more information about our privacy practices, please visit our privacy policy at https://fgsglobal.com/privacy.