Research Manager

Research Manager – Innovation (FMCG/F&B) At Ipsos, we turn human behaviour into brand-building decisions. Our Innovation practice plays a central role in that mission: we partner with the world's biggest FMCG and F&B brands to design, validate, and optimise the ideas, products, and experiences that millions of consumers will use tomorrow. To strengthen our growing Innovation Team, we're looking for a Research Manager. As a Research Manager at Ipsos, you will play a key role in leading and delivering high-quality research projects for our clients. The impact of you Role The Research Manager plays a pivotal role in delivering exceptional research solutions to our clients. As a strategic thinker and client partner, you will lead research projects from conception to completion, ensuring high-quality deliverables that address client objectives and drive business impact. You will leverage your expertise in research methodologies, data analysis, and project management to guide project teams, manage client relationships, and contribute to the overall success of the business. Your Day to Day Project Leadership You will own projects end-to-end: Shape innovation strategies, identify opportunity spaces, and guide clients through concept, product, and experience development. Translate business KPIs into sharp, actionable research designs that help clients make confident go/no-go decisions. Bring storytelling, strategic thinking, and clear recommendations to senior international stakeholders. Safeguard quality, consistency, timelines, and collaboration. Client Management Act as a sounding board for brand, insights, R&D, and innovation teams at client side. Challenge thinking, connect dots across markets, and elevate the level of discussion. Build relationships that give you the influence and freedom to steer direction rather than simply deliver research. You will contribute to business development by identifying and pursuing new business opportunities and developing existing client accounts. People Management Mentor researchers in Belgium and virtually in Asia, creating clarity, structure, and growth opportunities. Build a positive team culture where people feel supported, trusted, and challenged. Learn from and collaborate with global innovation experts and contribute to international initiatives. Who You Are You'll thrive in this role if you recognise yourself in the following: Your experience Proven track record of succes in (innovation) market research, consumer insights, brand management or innovation consultancy, with experience in managing projects and client relationships. Strong affinity with FMCG and/or F&B, consumer behaviour, product development, and innovation processes. Experience in managing complex research and confidently guiding senior stakeholders through critical decision moments, with a strong passion for delivering clear, impactful insights. Experience in proactively managing finances on projects and ensuring project profitability. Your mindset Strategic & commercial: you understand how insights drive brand growth and can translate data into direction. Collaborative coach: clear expectations, constructive feedback & shared ownership. Project Driver: you keep momentum, focus, and team alignment even with many moving parts. Curious innovator: you love exploring new methodologies, challenging assumptions, and improving ways of working. What We Offer A work environment where expertise meets humanity, and where your impact is visible—both inside Ipsos and with clients. Competitive salary & benefits, including 28 paid leave days + 2 volunteer days. Hybrid working setup with flexibility built in. Tailored learning opportunities, network of local/international market research experts and international exposure. The opportunity to make a real impact: Your work will directly shape the understanding of society, markets, and people. Award-winning sports culture and wellbeing initiatives. Enjoy the entrepreneurial spirit of a boutique firm, combined with the resources, reach, and stability of a global agency. Strong engagement programs around sustainability, diversity, and community impact.