Research Manager

About the Role

We are an established African research and insights firm dedicated to delivering top-tier data, research, and experiences focused on the African continent and global audiences. Through our consultancy, we support various sectors including businesses, governments, and development organizations to comprehend dynamics shaping Africa's digital economy. Our deliverables span customized research, market intelligence, strategic consulting, reports, events, and thought leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate in formulating and implementing the expansion strategy for our research and consultancy services.
• Oversee the design, execution, and completion of high-quality research and advisory projects tailored for clients.
• Manage entire project lifecycles including planning, scheduling, budgeting, quality control, and stakeholder coordination.
• Convert quantitative and qualitative insights into actionable recommendations and professional client reports.
• Maintain daily relationships with major clients ensuring effective communication, deliverable quality, and client satisfaction.
• Spot new client demands and commercial possibilities in sectors such as technology, financial services, public sector, and development.
• Collaborate with business development to prepare proposals, scopes of work, cost estimates, and pitching documents.
• Enhance and expand consultancy offerings for startups, tech firms, governments, and development entities.
• Support methodology development, project management protocols, quality standards, and best consultancy practices.
• Contribute to thought leadership through reports, speaking engagements, panels, and articles.
• Identify and build strategic partnerships to increase visibility, expertise, and revenue streams.
• Guide and mentor junior staff, consultants, and research contributors as needed.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum five years in management consulting, research, strategy, advisory, market intelligence, policy, or related fields.
• Proven track record leading or playing a significant role in client-oriented research or consulting engagements.
• Experienced in creating and executing strategic plans for diverse stakeholders.
• Skilled in drafting proposals, articulating scopes of work, budgeting, and creating presentations.
• Proficient in juggling multiple projects and managing stakeholder expectations and deadlines.
• Strong analytical skills to structure complex issues and develop practical solutions.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Comfortable engaging with senior clients and public audiences to share insights.
• Robust relationship and team management capabilities combined with meticulous attention to quality and judgment.
• Demonstrates proactive, curious, and entrepreneurial traits.

Preferred Attributes

• Previous experience with top management consulting or professional services firms.
• Familiarity with African tech, digital economy, innovation, public policy, development, and investment ecosystems.
• Competence in quantitative and qualitative research methods including surveys, interviews, desk reviews, and data analysis.
• Advanced degrees are advantageous but not mandatory.
• Established networks in private, public, development, tech, or investment sectors are a plus.