Research Associate – Consumer Insights

Role Purpose:

Seeking a detail oriented, problem solver and analytical Research Associate to support ongoing consumer, brand and product research initiatives for Hardee’s and Krispy Kreme. This role will work closely with Senior Consumer Insights Manager and internal stakeholders plus research partners to execute internal and external high quality research studies that deliver actionable insights related to consumer behavior, product performance, customer experience and related brand health/concept evaluations studies. The ideal candidate has hands-on research experience, strong analytical skills and a passion for understanding consumers within QSR environments.

Key Responsibilities

Research Execution & Project Support

• Support the design, execution and management of quantitative/qualitative research studies for Hardee’s and Krispy Kreme
• Assist in end-to-end research processes including research brief development, questionnaire design, fieldwork coordination and data validation
• Coordinate with research agencies, fieldwork partners and internal teams to ensure project timelines and quality standards are met
• Travel to assigned markets as needed to manage and/or conduct in‑market research activities.

Data Analysis & Insights

• Analyze research data (survey results, trackers, usage & attitudes studies, concept tests/evaluations and product & taste tests)
• Identify trends, patterns and key insights related to consumer behavior, brand perception, menu innovation, pricing and promotions
• Prepare clear insights summaries, charts and presentations for stakeholders

Brand & Consumer Understanding

• Support brand health tracking, customer experience studies and store level research initiatives
• Monitor competitive activity and industry trends in the QSR and foodservice category

Reporting & Stakeholder Support

• Create research reports and executive summaries tailored to business audiences
• Support presentations and readouts for marketing, brand, product and operations teams

Required Qualifications :

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, Business, Economics, Psychology and Statistics
• Advanced degrees or research certifications are a plus

Experience

• 5–7 years of experience in market research, consumer insights, analytics preferably in research agency environment
• Experience working with FMCG and QSR brands is highly preferred
• Exposure to both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies

Technical & Analytical Skills

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint (experience with SPSS or other analytics tools is a plus)
• Ability to translate data into clear/actionable insights

Personal Attributes

• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast paced environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Curious, proactive and eager to learn about consumer behavior
• Comfortable working with cross functional and regional teams

Language Proficiency

• Fluent in English & Arabic (spoken and written)
• Ability to review, analyze and develop research materials in both languages is a strong advantage