Senior Manager, Global Market Research

**Why Valvoline Global Operations?**

At **Valvoline Global Operations**, we’re proud to be **The Original Motor Oil**, but we’ve never rested on being first. Founded in 1866, we introduced the world’s first branded motor oil, staking our claim as a pioneer in the automotive and industrial solutions industry. Today, as an affiliate of **Aramco**, one of the world’s largest integrated energy and chemicals companies, we are driven by innovation and committed to creating sustainable solutions for a better future.

With a global presence, we develop **future-ready products** and provide **best-in-class services** for our partners around the world. For us, originality isn’t just about where we began; it’s about where we’re headed and how we’ll lead the way. **We are originality in motion.**

Our corporate values—**Care, Integrity, Passion, Unity, and Excellence**—are at the heart of everything we do. These values define how we operate, how we treat one another, and how we engage with our partners, customers, and the communities we serve. At Valvoline Global, we are united in our commitment to:

- Treating everyone with care.
- Acting with unwavering integrity.
- Striving for excellence in all endeavors.
- Delivering on our commitments with passion.
- Collaborating as one unified team.

When you join **Valvoline Global**, you’ll become part of a culture that celebrates creativity, innovation, and excellence. Together, we’re shaping the future of automotive and industrial solutions.

This role will lead the market research department and the development of consumer and customer understanding and insights in an ongoing effort to deliver competitive advantage and drive top-line growth across the branded portfolio and activities. This Market Research Manager will provide thought-leadership and direction for brand, business, and functional leaders, based on a thorough understanding of the marketplace, through tracking, consumer analysis, and market intelligence. The manager will interact frequently with the marketing and brand teams, retail and sales teams, business analysis and product management / strategy teams. These internal clients rely on this Manager for a clear understanding of underlying category dynamics and consumer/retail trends and analysis of the marketplace.

The individual will lead and grow a global research team, currently consisting of a Market Research Manager and a full-time contractor based in Lexington and Connecticut, with plans to expand the team further in the near future. This role requires flexibility in working hours to collaborate across time zones effectively.

**How You’ll Make an Impact**

**Responsibilities Include**
- **
Develop and Execute Market Research Strategy -**Lead the creation and implementation of a comprehensive global research strategy that aligns with business objectives, the innovation master plan, and ensures a deep consumer and market understanding to drive growth.
- ** Drive Data-Driven Decision Making -**Leverage advanced research methodologies and next-generation consumer insights to influence strategic direction across marketing, sales, product management, and business strategy teams.
- ** Manage Research Operations and Budget -**Oversee the market research function, managing a $2+ million USD annual budget, prioritizing projects, and ensuring the effective allocation of resources for maximum business impact.
- ** Lead Vendor and Stakeholder Collaboration -**Partner with internal teams and external research providers to design and execute high-quality primary research, ensuring insights are actionable and aligned with business needs.

**Primary Interactions -**Internal and External**

**Internal**

Regular interaction with senior leaders across marketing, product strategy, and commercial business units to align strategies and insights. Collaborate closely with regional marketing teams.

**External**

Work with external research agencies, marketing agencies as a consult and collaborator to execute global activities.

**What You’ll Need**
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Market Research, Business, Economics, Statistics, Psychology, or a related field.
- 8+ years of experience in market research, consumer insights, or a related analytical role, preferably within a global organization.
- Proven track record of leading research functions, managing large-scale projects, and influencing business strategy through insights.

**What Will Set You Apart**
- Expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, including survey design, data analysis, segmentation, and competitive intelligence.
- Proficiency with research tools such as SPSS, Qualtrics, Nielsen, Kantar, Ipsos, GRIP or other industry-standard platforms.
- Strong ability to synthesize complex data into clear, actionable insights and communicate them effectively to stakeholders.
- Experience managing and mentoring research teams, fostering a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improve