Program Manager

Overview

Our client is seeking a proactive and strategic Research Operations Program Manager (PM) to enhance and scale global research programs, significantly contributing to the effectiveness of an outstanding UX Research team. The PM will be instrumental in developing operational systems, bridging teams and knowledge, and tackling operational challenges, thereby empowering Researchers to deliver their most influential work.

This pivotal role involves crafting and refining operational processes and programs within the Participant Management team and requires close collaboration with Research Program Managers. The successful candidate will be the driving force behind strategic program planning, adept at maneuvering through uncertain situations, managing project milestones, connecting resources with research necessities, and eliminating obstacles that impede excellence.

Our Research Operations PMs excel in complex problem-solving, multitasking, forging long-lasting relationships, and deploying an array of organizational and interpersonal skills to elevate our skilled teams to peak efficiency.

The ideal candidate is an initiative-taking, resourceful individual with exceptional organizational acumen, attention to detail, and a collaborative spirit. This role demands program management expertise and potent leadership capabilities. Applicants should have a fervent interest in the services we offer, the clients we serve, and the profound influence of research on those services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and manage central systems for participant recruitment, engagement with external agencies, and the expansion of our Customer Programs.
• Oversee tools and infrastructure management, including software licensing and coordination with procurement, legal, and finance teams.
• Implement governance by documenting standard operating procedures, ensuring data security, and managing data access, including sensitive customer information.
• Manage and enhance our repository of best practice templates and guides, maintaining our user needs framework and research insights library.
• Develop systems for managing the research backlog, aiding researchers in workload prioritization and resource visibility.
• Support the Design Research Manager with budgeting and resource allocation.
• Engage with colleagues in Leadership, Design, and Content to foster organizational cohesion.
• Establish and monitor operational key quality and performance indicators across the research team.
• Employ data-driven insights for operational enhancements such as efficiency and accuracy.
• Conceptualize, expand, and implement strategic programs to maximize team efficiency.
• Innovate participant management processes and identify workflow optimization opportunities.
• Anticipate challenges and devise preemptive solutions.
• Handle multiple Participant Management Infrastructure projects and programs simultaneously.
• Collaborate with Research Managers to forecast hindrances, devise inventive solutions, allocate resources, and cultivate key stakeholder relationships.
• Partner with the Research Team and cross-functional counterparts to refine recruiting processes, programs, and vendor relations.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 4 years in relevant program or project management roles.
• Proficiency in fast-paced environments with autonomous time management, task prioritization, and adaptability.
• Stellar communication skills for engaging with diverse stakeholders and leveraging data to enact change.
• A history of independent operation, embracing uncertainty, displaying ingenuity, being detail-oriented, and providing organized results.
• Proven problem-solving prowess, resourcefulness, and superior organizational skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office tools (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Visio, or equivalent process mapping software).
• Background in UX Research, particularly in participant recruitment methodologies.
• Experience in an operational capacity within a dynamic corporate setting.

The target hiring compensation range for this role is the equivalent of $59.26 to $65.84 an hour. Compensation is based on several factors including, but not limited to education, relevant work experience, relevant certifications, and location.
Additional benefits offered may include; medical health insurance and dental insurance, life insurance, and eligibility to participate in 401k plan with company match.

About Aquent Talent:

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world’s biggest brands. 

Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits! 

Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We’re about creating an inclusive environment—one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their care