Title: Research Director- Entertainment
Location: Los Angeles, Must be in the LA area
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Contact:dwilberschied@smithhanley.com
A leading entertainment research consultancy is seeking a strategic and intellectually curious Research Director to join its team. This individual will lead high-profile research initiatives supporting film and entertainment clients, helping studios and marketers better understand audiences, evaluate creative, and make smarter business decisions.
This is a highly consultative role for someone who enjoys blending rigorous research with compelling storytelling and executive-level client engagement. You'll work across quantitative and qualitative studies, translating complex findings into clear strategic recommendations that influence marketing, positioning, and audience engagement strategies.
What You'll Do:
- Lead end-to-end custom research engagements, including concept testing, creative and advertising evaluation, audience segmentation, positioning studies, recruit screenings, and qualitative initiatives
- Determine the appropriate methodologies, analytical approaches, and reporting strategies to address client business objectives
- Transform quantitative and qualitative findings into actionable insights and strategic recommendations that drive decisions
- Develop executive-level presentations and narratives for studio executives, filmmakers, marketers, and other stakeholders
- Serve as a trusted advisor to clients, presenting findings and providing consultative guidance around audience engagement, positioning, and marketing effectiveness
- Analyze market trends, competitive dynamics, and consumer behavior to identify opportunities and risks
- Collaborate closely with internal teams, vendors, and clients to ensure successful project execution and exceptional client service
- Provide expertise on research methodologies, analytical frameworks, and interpretation of findings while continuously improving processes and research quality
What We're Looking For:
- 6+ years of progressive experience in market research, consumer insights, analytics, or related fields
- Demonstrated success independently leading complex research programs and developing strategic recommendations
- Strong knowledge of quantitative and qualitative methodologies, including brand health, messaging, positioning, audience segmentation, and media effectiveness
- Experience working with large and complex datasets and translating analysis into compelling business stories
- Exceptional communication, presentation, and storytelling skills, with the ability to tailor insights to diverse audiences
- Advanced PowerPoint capabilities and strong written communication skills, including attention to grammar, structure, and clarity
- Ability to thrive in fast-paced environments with strong attention to detail and a collaborative, "no job too small" mentality
- Entertainment, media, or film industry experience is highly preferred; a passion for movies and television is a major plus
