A career in operations within the research industry offers a stimulating and diverse pathway in a profession that makes a difference. Operations professionals manage project logistics, as well as expertise in project management, data analysis, and problem-solving. This role is highly adaptable, with opportunities to work across multiple sectors like healthcare, retail, and tech, providing broad industry exposure.

The Operations Career Pathway

 Pathways Graphic

+ C-suite l Business strategy and leadership, MBA, Fellowship
+ Management l  Financial planning, team leading, influencing + presentation skills, project + client management, Certified Member
+ Specialist skills l Project management, operational (tabulation, field, CATI, software), participant recruitment, translation, panel management
+ Core skills  l Storytelling, behavioural science, AI, comms skills, client engagement, data analysis, desk research, CX/UX, Membership
+ Personal qualities l Strong organisational skills, process design skills, likes new technology and innovation
+ First steps The Certificate in Market Research, Advanced Certificate in Market Research
+ Entry points l  Work placement or technical training/qualification
How to get upskilled for a career in Operations

The demand for operations in research continues to be strong, as businesses rely on the best frameworks and software to conduct research effectively.  Operations teams deliver automation tools and analytics software, as well as recruit participants, provide translation services, viewing facilities, data anlysis and online platforms. 

Operations professionals play a crucial role in delivering accurate data that supports research teams deliver the insights. The fast-paced, collaborative environment keeps the work dynamic, with opportunities to build strong networks across departments and clients. With operations specialists managing projects, coordinating teams and ensuring efficient processes the core skills include:

  • Project Management: Handling the logistics, timelines, and resource allocation for research projects.
  • Data Analysis: Ensuring that data is collected and processed accurately, which improves analytical thinking and attention to detail.
  • Problem-Solving: Operations professionals often troubleshoot issues related to survey designs, respondent recruitment, and data quality, sharpening critical thinking skills.
Running a successful research project

Get the most from your project by making good research and project management decisions at every stage.

Feb
06
2025

Thursday
09:30–16:00

Effective Depth Interviewing

This lively on-line interactive day course lets you learn the theory and practice of online, (telephone) and face-to-face depth interviewing.

Feb
13
2025

Thursday
09:00–16:30

Questionnaire Fundamentals

This course will give anyone new to questionnaire design a solid framework of understanding of the key principles and common challenges. It will build confidence and practice in spotting weaknesses so the main pitfalls are avoided. It is also relevant for those reviewing questionnaires before starting fieldwork.

Mar
12
2025

Wednesday
09:30–16:45

Strategic Management Skills

Using the tools and techniques that work in leading people.

Mar
13
2025

Thursday
09:30–17:30

Influence & Impact

Evaluate your personal impact and increase your influence in business

Mar
18
2025

Tuesday
09:30–17:30

Project Management Masterclass

Learn the fundamental skills and processes of effective project management

Mar
25
2025

Tuesday
09:30–17:30

Survey Sampling and Related Techniques

How to be confident that your insights are compatible with the origin of the raw data?

May
12
2025

Monday
09:30–16:00

One Day MBA

Journey to the heart of successful business administration with management tools that deliver immediate value

May
19
2025

Monday
09:00–17:00

Effective & Agile Leadership Skills

Learn how to lead engaged, focused and high-performance teams

Jul
14
2025

Monday
09:30–17:30

Running a successful research project

Get the most from your project by making good research and project management decisions at every stage.

Jul
16
2025

Wednesday
09:30–16:00

Data Privacy and Research

This Data Privacy and Research course comes in two parts – an introduction to the core data protection principles plus a second on conducting a Data Protection Impact Assessment. This on-demand course will equip you with the necessary skills to navigate today’s data privacy challenges.

Sep
20
2030

Friday
00:00–00:00

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