Associate Vice-President (Retail)

About the role

The Associate Vice-President provides strategic leadership across complex research initiatives, translating insights into actionable recommendations that support client business objectives and strengthen Leger's presence in the U.S. Retail market.

The role drives business growth by identifying new opportunities, expanding strategic client relationships, and serving as a trusted advisor. It also leads high-performing teams to deliver high-quality research solutions and strong client outcomes.

Success requires extensive market research expertise, commercial acumen, strong analytical and strategic thinking, proven leadership capabilities, senior-level relationships, and an entrepreneurial mindset.

Responsibilities

Business Development & Revenue Growth

• Drive new client acquisition and revenue growth in the U.S. Retail sector through targeted prospecting, relationship development, and strategic account planning.
• Expand existing accounts by uncovering client needs, introducing relevant research solutions, and securing additional mandates.
• Build and manage a qualified pipeline; lead proposals, RFP responses, pricing discussions, and persuasive client presentations.
• Contribute to revenue forecasting, account planning, and the commercial profitability of client engagements.

Strategic Client Leadership

• Build trusted relationships with senior client stakeholders and understand their business objectives, competitive context, and emerging challenges.
• Provide strategic counsel and thought leadership, connecting research findings to clear, actionable business decisions.
• Identify opportunities for innovative and customized research solutions while strengthening client satisfaction and retention.

Research & Insights Leadership

• Oversee research strategy, design, methodology selection, interpretation, and delivery of high-quality recommendations.
• Partner with research and analytics teams to develop tailored solutions aligned with client objectives and Leger quality standards.
• Stay current with research methods, analytics capabilities, and changing market needs.

Leadership & Market Presence

• Mentor and guide teams, fostering collaboration, accountability, innovation, and strong execution.
• Collaborate across Leger to leverage capabilities and identify cross-selling opportunities.
• Represent Leger at U.S. industry events and through professional networks and thought leadership.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, market research, or a related field; master's degree or MBA is an asset.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in market research, consumer insights, strategic consulting, or a related field, with significant client-facing and business development responsibility.
• Demonstrated success winning new business, expanding accounts, and managing senior client relationships.
• Strong understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, consumer insights, and analytics.
• Experience leading or mentoring teams and working across functions.
• Deep knowledge of U.S. Retail manufacturers and categories such as food and beverage, personal care, household products, or health and wellness.
• Experience with brand strategy, innovation, concept and product testing, packaging, pricing, segmentation, and category insights.
• Relationships with consumer insights, brand management, innovation, category management, marketing, or commercial strategy leaders.
• An established U.S. professional network and relationships with senior decision makers in Retail are strongly preferred.

Skills

• Business development and entrepreneurial drive: Proactively build pipeline, win new clients, and deliver sustainable revenue growth.
• Strategic client management: Understand complex business needs and develop trusted executive-level partnerships.
• Strategic and analytical thinking: Translate research findings into business implications and recommendations.
• Communication and presentation: Deliver clear, compelling stories and influence senior stakeholders.
• Commercial and financial acumen: Understand pricing, revenue management, and project profitability.
• Innovation and leadership: Develop creative research solutions, mentor talent, and collaborate effectively.

Additional Information

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