Sr. Researcher, Consumer Insights

Hybrid Work Model

SEGA. . . What do you think of when you hear that word? Do you think of the console with the iconic, harmonized voice fire ups or do you think of the countless gaming hits from Sonic the Hedgehog, Golden Axe, or the Persona series? . . .

When we think of SEGA, we think of its evolution as a pioneer in the video game market to one of the most prominent video game developers and publishers ever! Globally, SEGA has over 5,000 employees passionately working to bring the best gaming entertainment to players around the planet. We have one of, if not the richest, portfolio of original IPs something we are very proud of and excited about as the market continues to change.

New streaming technologies and shifts in the retail landscape are well poised for what will be the most disruptive and innovative time in our industry. Our IP strategy positions us well for this, and we are enthusiastic about the future!

There's never been a more exciting time in the company's history to join SEGA!

Job Summary:

Are you a passionate gamer with a deep understanding of both console and PC video games? We are seeking a talented and experienced Researcher to join our dynamic Consumer Insights team at SEGA. As a Researcher, you will play a pivotal role in driving data-driven decision-making processes by conducting various research activities, including Research Design, Market Research, User Experience Research, and Managing External Research Partners. Your expertise in the gaming industry will be critical as you independently manage full-service research programs and ensure that the results are actioned upon by global stakeholders, including those in Japan.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Research Design:
   • Develop and implement effective research methodologies tailored to the video game industry and its unique challenges.
   • Plan consumer research projects that uncover valuable insights into gaming trends, player behavior, and preferences.
   • Identify key research objectives and strategies to address business challenges specific to console and PC gaming.
2. Market Research:
   • Conduct comprehensive market research to identify emerging trends, competitor analysis, and growth opportunities within the gaming market.
   • Analyze market data to provide insights that inform marketing and product strategies for console and PC games.
   • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand business needs and align research efforts accordingly.
3. Managing External Research Partners:
   • Collaborate with external research partners to execute research projects effectively and efficiently.
   • Oversee vendor selection, negotiation, and contracting processes to ensure high-quality research outcomes.
   • Ensure external research partners deliver results that align with the unique demands of the video game industry.
4. Data Analysis and Reporting:
   • Utilize survey software tools, such as Alchemer and Qualtrics, to design and conduct gaming-specific surveys.
   • Leverage statistical software packages like SPSS to independently run complex analyses on gaming-related data sets.
   • Synthesize data from multiple sources to create compelling reports that provide valuable insights for game development and marketing teams.
   • Create visually engaging reports in PowerPoint that effectively communicate research findings to stakeholders.
5. Cross-Cultural Communication:
   • Effectively communicate research findings and insights to stakeholders from diverse cultural backgrounds, including those in Japan.
   • Collaborate with global teams to ensure research efforts are relevant and resonate across different regions and gaming communities.
6. Other duties as assigned
7. Working in-office is an essential function of this position.  This requirement of face-to-face interaction is in place to ensure effective supervision, collaboration, and teamwork.  In-office attendance is required for the following reasons:
   • For effective supervision of employees and our work product, which includes ensuring all employees have necessary oversight of their work and access to supervisory assistance, which includes meetings to review work product, deadlines, and status.
   • To foster communication and collaboration among team members, which includes the following: allowing for spontaneous brainstorming sessions and exchanges of ideas, quick access to team members to enable collaborative problem-solving, and stronger cohesion among co-workers and within teams.
   • To enhance the sharing of information necessary to effective job performance and product creation. 
   • To enhance understanding of our stakeholders’ work and business needs, facilitate a more seamless and organic workflow, and ultimately increase efficiency and successful outcomes.

Required Hard Skills

• Proficiency in programming surveys and using survey software tools such as Alchemer and Qualtrics for gaming-focused research.
• Expertise in statistical software packages like SPSS or R for in-depth data analysis.
• Ability to independently run complex statistical analyses.
• Excellent analytical skills to synthesize data from various sources and derive actionable insights for game development and marketing strategies.
• Proficiency in creating visually engaging reports in PowerPoint.

Required Soft Skills

• Outstanding cross-cultural communication skills to effectively interact with global teams and diverse gaming communities.
• Ability to collaborate with other team members and grow their skills.
• Ability to champion for audiences and push for high quality results and decision making.
• Excellent presentation skills and the ability to make people excited about data and recommendations.