Research Manager

Global Association seeking part-time (24 hours per week) Research Professional!

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Research Manager is responsible for conducting major industry studies (e.g., Cremation and Burial Report, Consumer Awareness and Preferences Survey), evaluations of NFDA’s internal operations (e.g., Member Needs and Satisfaction Survey, evaluations of webinars and conferences), and one-time opportunistic studies (e.g., Veterans’ Benefits Survey, Floral Trends Survey). The Research Manager occasionally collaborates with universities and suppliers. Under supervision of the Chief Marketing Officer, the Research Manager will devise appropriate methods and procedures for obtaining relevant quantitative and qualitative data about association operations and the funeral service industry; compile, analyze, organize, and report on data to create accurate research that will assist association leaders and management with fiscal, program, and policy decision-making in accordance with NFDA’s strategic plan.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Coordinate and schedule all internal research activities in accordance with strategic goals of the association.
2. Develop and maintain an in-depth understanding of the funeral service profession, including students, employees, business owners, consumers, retirees, and associated businesses.
3. Have in-depth knowledge of survey/data collection software.
4. Have in-depth knowledge of data analysis software, such as SPSS
5. Gather and interpret industry data and competitor development, which may include product and service offerings, data and statistics.
6. Use general trend analysis practices and procedures to produce organization and industry trend reports based on review of relevant trade and association publications, industry reports, academic studies, white papers, national press articles, etc., at preset intervals.
7. Gather data and statistics on association program and service performance, including satisfaction levels with policies, positions, programs, products, services, and events; membership demographics, preferences, needs, and opinions; customer, vendor, and affiliate satisfaction levels; and other measurable performance aspects of operations as requested.
8. Coordinate approved research projects: determine best methods to gather necessary information; develop and test surveys; implement surveys; obtain and compile data; analyze data and statistical research findings using accepted classification criteria; report on results, incorporating relevant longitudinal study data and statistics when available. Write top-line, executive summary, and final reports and conclusions based on research findings.
9. Build an annual research budget and carefully manage expenditures to remain within budget and meet essential goals.
10. Collect competitive data on professional development/continuing education courses, programs, seminars, conferences, events and certification program/s to assist the Education and Meetings Division with strategic planning.
11. Maintain database of significant existing association data and statistical knowledge through review of various source materials including computer documents, in-house records, historical files, and publications.
12. Write clear, insightful, error-free analyses synthesizing hard data, questionnaire and interview-derived information, historical data, and secondary research from internal and external sources into cohesive, significant findings.
13. In coordination with other departments, develop and maintain integrated database/s of significant industry and association data and statistical knowledge easily accessed and navigated by staff, leadership, members, and the public.
14. Recommend new strategic research projects to address gaps in association knowledge base as may be necessary; on approval, implement projects.
15. May coordinate and conduct survey research with other organizations and for external clients as directed. Must determine if outside research projects benefit NFDA members or generate additional revenue for NFDA.
16. Develop proposals to work with qualitative/quantitative vendors as necessary.
17. Promote and assist in carrying out the Association’s mission, vision, and goals in a manner consistent with the Association’s stated values.
18. Exhibit flexible and innovative approaches while performing essential responsibilities and assignments.
19. Embrace and actively participate in a variety of work teams as requested or assigned.
20. Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A bachelor’s degree in research-based or related discipline such as Sociology or Psychology 
• At least 5-10 years of experience in a research-related field. 
• Requires SPSS, Survey Monkey or other survey design software, and Office 365 proficiency. 
• Knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods, including knowledge of sample planning, survey design and data analysis. 
• Ability to learn critical issues in new topic areas and to quickly apply this evolving understanding to work. 
• Extraordinary attention to precision data analysis and to detail in all facets of work. 
• Team-oriented and willing to take direction from – and contribute to – larger project teams. 
• Independent problem-solver. 
• Ability to think creatively and analytically. 
• Ability to manage time and multiple projects to meet deadlines. 
• Clear, professional communication skills including exceptional writing capabilities. 
• Some travel may be required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for a long time periods, use hands/fingers to manipulate a computer keyboard, communicate verbally over the phone and in person and hear. The employee is required to stand and walk, and sometimes bend, twist, stoop, reach, kneel, crouch, grasp, and lift up to 35 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

NFDA has a generous benefit package including pro rated PTO on day one, county parks pass, Costco/Sam's Club membership, and so much more!