Sr. Manager, Audience Research

onwards Search

Job Summary

Onward Search is seeking a Senior Manager, Audience Research for a 6-month hybrid contract in New York, NY, with a leading media company. This role involves transforming complex data into actionable insights to guide business decisions and support the sales team. The ideal candidate will join the Positioning & Marketplace Insights team, working in a fast-paced, data-driven environment where creativity meets analytics.

Must Have

  • Turn large datasets into simple, actionable insights demonstrating competitive advantages.
  • Build “sales stories” including slides and talking points using internal and third-party data.
  • Collaborate with sales and solutions teams to answer client questions and address objections.
  • Send regular performance updates on streaming content.
  • Manage research vendors to ensure accurate and timely project delivery.
  • Lead quick turnarounds on RFPs and maintain up-to-date go-to-market materials.
  • Partner across research groups to ensure a consistent narrative about the streaming market.
  • Mentor junior team members and improve team processes for efficiency.
  • 8+ years of experience in media or market research, ideally at a media company or ad agency.
  • Strong understanding of the streaming business and experience with TV (linear) and digital platforms.
  • Hands-on experience with Nielsen, MRI-Simmons, and first-party measurement.
  • Experience leading or mentoring junior team members.
  • Ability to turn large datasets into clear, compelling stories.
  • Strong project management and presentation skills for senior leaders.
  • Comfortable working with third-party research vendors.
  • Excellent client communication, time management, and written/verbal communication skills.
  • Thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
  • Proficient in PowerPoint, Excel, Word, and common research tools.

Good to Have

  • Familiarity with data visualization tools like Tableau or Power BI.

Perks & Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Program
  • Commuter Benefit
  • eLearning & Ongoing Training
  • Education Reimbursement

Job Description

Onward Search is a specialized staffing and talent solutions company that helps professionals find top jobs with the nation’s leading brands. We’re looking to hire a Senior Manager, Audience Research for a hybrid role. This is a 6-month contract opportunity with a leading media company.

You’ll join the Positioning & Marketplace Insights team to turn complex data into actionable insights that guide business decisions and support the sales team. This is a fast-paced, innovative environment where data drives decisions and creativity meets analytics.

Senior Manager, Audience Research Responsibilities:

  • Turn large datasets into simple, actionable insights demonstrating competitive advantages.
  • Build “sales stories” including slides and talking points using internal and third-party data.
  • Collaborate with sales and solutions teams to answer client questions and address objections.
  • Send regular performance updates on streaming content.
  • Manage research vendors to ensure accurate and timely project delivery.
  • Lead quick turnarounds on RFPs and maintain up-to-date go-to-market materials.
  • Partner across research groups to ensure a consistent narrative about the streaming market.
  • Mentor junior team members and improve team processes for efficiency.

Senior Manager, Audience Research Qualifications:

  • 8+ years of experience in media or market research, ideally at a media company or ad agency.
  • Strong understanding of the streaming business and experience with TV (linear) and digital platforms.
  • Hands-on experience with Nielsen, MRI-Simmons, and first-party measurement.
  • Experience leading or mentoring junior team members.
  • Ability to turn large datasets into clear, compelling stories.
  • Strong project management and presentation skills for senior leaders.
  • Comfortable working with third-party research vendors.
  • Excellent client communication, time management, and written/verbal communication skills.
  • Thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
  • Proficient in PowerPoint, Excel, Word, and common research tools.
  • Familiarity with data visualization tools like Tableau or Power BI (preferred).

Perks & Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
  • Life Insurance.
  • 401(k) Program.
  • Commuter Benefit.
  • eLearning & Ongoing Training.
  • Education Reimbursement.

*Eligibility requires working over 30 hours per week on an assignment lasting at least 10 weeks.

If you meet the qualifications and are excited about this opportunity, apply today! Our team will connect with you to discuss next steps, support you through the interview process, and advocate for your success.

9 Skills Required For This Role

Timeline Management Communication Excel Data Analytics Game Texts Market Research Data Visualization Power Bi Tableau