Manager, Panel Business Development

JOB SUMMARY:

NORC at the University of Chicago, a world leader in research excellence, is seeking a commercially minded survey research professional to help expand Ameri Speak’s client portfolio and bring rigorous, probability-based research solutions to organizations making consequential decisions. In this role, you will pair consultative business development with deep survey research expertise, helping clients define their needs, understand Ameri Speak’s value, and move from opportunity to successful project launch.

Location:

This hybrid role is based in NORC’s downtown Chicago office, with a minimum of six in-office days per month for collaboration, client development, and team connection. DEPARTMENT:
Ameri Speak The Ameri Speak® Panel is a probability-based sample of U.S. households built for survey researchers who cannot afford to be wrong. Ameri Speak combines the speed and cost-effectiveness of modern survey panels with the methodological rigor that has made NORC at the University of Chicago a trusted leader in survey research. By reaching populations that other survey panels often miss, Ameri Speak enables high-quality, trustworthy insights for clients including The Associated Press, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, AARP, universities, and many others.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Develop and grow a portfolio of prospective clients by connecting their research goals to Ameri Speak’s products, services, and methodological strengths. Strengthen relationships with existing clients by identifying opportunities for repeat work, expanded engagement, and long-term partnership. Guide client opportunities of basic to moderate complexity from early consultation through proposal, pricing, contracting, and internal transition to delivery teams. Lead client conversations that translate research questions into practical, high-quality survey solutions.

Create clear, persuasive pricing, proposals, and contract materials that help clients make confident decisions. Ensure newly awarded projects begin with clear scope, expectations, responsibilities, and success measures. Contribute to complex, high-value opportunities led by senior team members, including solution development, proposal inputs, opportunity tracking, and client communications. Persuasively present Ameri Speak with clarity and credibility to research, policy, academic, nonprofit, government, and commercial audiences.

Help shape Ameri Speak’s market presence by improving products, sales materials, messaging, and go-to-market resources. Coach and support junior staff. Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS:

Bachelor's degree. 5 years of survey, market research, or related research experience, including 1 year in client management, account management, consultative sales, or business development. Experience coaching, mentoring, or guiding colleagues in client-facing, proposal, or project delivery work. Strong knowledge of the principles and processes of survey research. Expertise in at least one substantive or methodological area. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills, with sound judgment and strong attention to detail.

Ability to manage multiple opportunities or projects, anticipate risks, and collaborate effectively with clients and internal partners. Self-starter who exercises sound judgment, works effectively with minimal supervision, and thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. Ability to write clear, persuasive technical proposals, budget justifications, and client-facing business development materials. Proficiency with Microsoft Office software, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Basic proficiency in CRM applications such as Salesforce.

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