At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead AI-powered insight projects and deliver impactful research programmes.
- Company: Join Verve, a pioneering company redefining insights in an AI-driven world.
- Benefits: Grow your skills in a supportive environment with innovative projects and career development.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of AI innovation and shape the future of research.
- Qualifications: 5-8 years of experience in commercial insights and a curiosity for AI.
- Other info: Work from our Manchester or London Hub and enjoy a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
At Verve, we’re redefining how insight works in an AI-powered world. We combine Human, Cultural and Artificial Intelligence to help leading brands make faster, smarter decisions with confidence. Through Verve Vero – our AI-powered platform and consultancy ecosystem – we turn human truth into living simulations, giving teams the ability to bring their customers into any decision. The result is insight that’s faster, more scalable, and grounded in real human understanding.
The Role
This is a client-facing, mid-level insight leadership role focused on delivering AI-powered insight projects. You’ll act as the day-to-day lead on projects, owning delivery from end to end – working closely with senior leads to shape direction, while managing junior team members to execute high-quality work. A core part of the role is learning and applying our AI-enabled simulation tools. You won’t be expected to come in as an expert, but you will be expected to get hands-on – building, shaping, and interpreting simulations as part of your project work.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end delivery of AI-powered insight programmes across multiple high-value client accounts.
- Act as a trusted senior advisor, shaping briefs, guiding clients through AI-enabled approaches, and constructively challenging thinking where needed.
- Own scoping, resourcing, timelines and budgets, translating business objectives into clear, actionable plans and ensuring work is commercially sound and drives real business impact.
- Identify opportunities to grow client relationships and support new business through pitches and proposals.
Technical Delivery & Innovation
- Interest in how AI capabilities (such as large language models, machine learning, or Retrieval-Augmented Generation models) can enhance insight delivery and efficiency.
- We’ll provide training and guidance on the tools and processes that power our AI-enabled solutions.
- Experience applying AI to insight workflows or automation is a plus, but not essential – curiosity and a willingness to learn matter most.
- Any technical experience (e.g. coding or working with APIs) is a bonus.
- Proactive, lateral thinker – able to solve problems, comfortable operating in ambiguity and helping shape structure as new approaches evolve.
- Work closely with specialist teams to test, refine and embed smarter, faster and more scalable tools into delivery.
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and scalability through AI-enabled approaches.
- Stay close to developments in AI, applying them pragmatically to client work.
- Lead, coach and develop Senior Consultants, Consultants and Associates, building confidence across client leadership and evolving capabilities.
- Set clear expectations that balance quality, efficiency and commercial discipline.
- Partner closely with Sales, Consultancy and Operational teams to deliver joined-up client programmes.
- Shape Build Studio standards and best practice, acting as a visible role model for curiosity, adaptability and ownership.
What We’re Looking For:
- 5–8 years’ experience.
- Commercial insight background (at a market research agency or client-side) is essential.
- Ability to translate briefs into clear, commercially impactful research programmes.
- Confidence operating as a senior client advisor, with experience leading complex delivery and building relationships.
- Strong commercial judgement across scoping, resourcing, and profitability.
- Curiosity about how AI can enhance insight delivery, with an openness to build capability (experience is a bonus, not essential).
- Ability to quickly learn new technical tools and ways of working.
- Leadership style that builds confidence and capability in others.
- Strong organisational skills, managing multiple projects, deadlines and stakeholders.
- Clear, confident communicator – able to explain complex ideas simply and align teams.
- A growth mindset – comfortable working in fast-moving, ambiguous environments where the model is still evolving.
- UK-based candidate. Able to work from our Manchester or London Hub at least once per week.
Join Us
If you’re excited by the potential of AI to change the research landscape and want to be part of a team that’s shaping the future, we’d love to hear from you. At Verve you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects, expand your insight, management and AI skill set, and grow in a supportive environment that thrives on innovation and impact.
Research Manager / Associate Director (AI Insights Studio Team) employer: Verve Academy
Contact Detail:
Verve Academy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Manager / Associate Director (AI Insights Studio Team)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its AI initiatives. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your understanding of how AI can enhance insight delivery and be ready to discuss your ideas.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be clear about your experience and how it aligns with their needs. Highlight your curiosity about AI and your willingness to learn – that’s what they’re looking for!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our brand.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Manager / Associate Director (AI Insights Studio Team)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Curiosity: We love candidates who are curious about AI and how it can enhance insight delivery. Make sure to highlight any experiences or projects where you've explored AI tools or methodologies, even if you're not an expert yet!
Tailor Your Application: When applying, take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant achievements!
Be Clear and Concise: In your written application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language to explain your experiences and how they relate to the role. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your potential.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at Verve!
How to prepare for a job interview at Verve Academy
✨Know Your AI Basics
Familiarise yourself with the fundamentals of AI and how it applies to insight delivery. Brush up on concepts like large language models and machine learning, as these will likely come up in conversation. Showing curiosity and a willingness to learn can really impress your interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading projects and managing teams, be prepared to share examples of your leadership experience. Talk about how you've guided teams through complex projects and how you’ve built relationships with clients. Highlighting your ability to inspire confidence in others will set you apart.
✨Prepare for Client Scenarios
Think about potential client scenarios you might face in this role. Prepare to discuss how you would approach scoping, resourcing, and delivering impactful insights. Being able to translate business objectives into actionable plans will show that you understand the commercial side of the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with thoughtful questions about the company’s AI initiatives and future projects. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the company aligns with your career goals. It’s a great way to demonstrate your proactive mindset!