Manager, User and Market Insights

Job Title:
Manager of User & Market Insights

Company Overview

Rust-Oleum Corporation, a subsidiary of RPM International, Inc., is a worldwide leader in protective paints and coatings for both home and industry. Founded in 1921, we have built a legacy of innovation, solving real-world challenges with durable, high-performance products that protect surfaces and transform spaces. With over 1,500 employees and more than $1 billion in annual revenue, Rust-Oleum is committed to delivering trusted quality, fostering creativity, and driving growth through strategic insights and customer‑centric solutions.

Headquartered in Vernon Hills, Illinois, we offer rewarding careers that emphasize professional development, work‑life balance, and community impact through programs like Rust‑Oleum Cares.

Job Summary

Lead the collection and analysis of user data to guide strategic decisions across Rust‑Oleum’s consumer and professional brands. Reporting to the Vice President of Insights & Category Management, this role partners with product, sales, and marketing to turn user behaviors and market trends into actionable strategies that drive innovation and growth. The ideal candidate is curious, research‑driven, and passionate about championing the voice of the user.

Occasional travel to for research purposes or for other business purposes required.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead User Research Initiatives
  :
  Design and execute qualitative and quantitative research programs, including surveys, focus groups, in‑depth interviews, and usability testing, to uncover deep insights into user behaviors, pain points, and preferences across DIY consumers, professional contractors, and industrial applicators.
• Analyze and Synthesize Data
  :
  Leverage advanced analytics tools to interpret complex datasets from multiple sources (e.g., market reports, sales data, social listening, and competitive intelligence), identifying trends and opportunities to inform product development, pricing, and positioning.
• Collaborate Cross‑Functionally
  :
  Partner with product managers and sales teams to integrate user insights into business cases, new product launches—ensuring solutions align with real user needs and deliver measurable ROI.
• Communicate Insights Effectively
  :
  Develop compelling storytelling through reports, dashboards, and presentations to senior leadership, translating data into strategic recommendations that support brand growth goals and enhance brand loyalty.
• Manage Vendor and Team Relationships
  :
  Oversee external research partners, fostering a culture of curiosity and continuous learning while ensuring projects stay on budget and timeline.
• Drive Innovation
  :
  Champion user feedback loops in NPD processes, from concept ideation to post‑launch evaluation, contributing to Rust‑Oleum's legacy of problem‑solving innovation.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Education
  :
  Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Market Research, Business Analytics, Psychology, or a related field; MBA or advanced certification in Consumer Insights strongly preferred.
• Experience
  : 7+ years in consumer insights, market research, or user experience roles, with at least 3 years in a leadership capacity managing research projects or small teams. Proven track record in CPG, manufacturing, or coatings industries; experience with diverse user segments (consumer and B2B) is highly desirable.
• Technical Skills
  :
  Proficiency in research tools (e.g., Toluna, Recollective), analytics platforms (e.g., Power BI), and statistical software (e.g., SPSS). Strong Excel and PowerPoint skills for data visualization and storytelling.
• Soft Skills
  :
  Natural curiosity and passion for understanding user motivations; excellent verbal and written communication to influence stakeholders; ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.

Preferred Skills and Attributes

• Experience conducting in‑field research with hands‑on applicators (e.g., contractors using industrial coatings).
• Familiarity with sustainability and other current trends in consumer products and their impact on user decision‑making.
• Background in agile methodologies for rapid insight iteration.
• Endorsed strengths in strategic thinking, project management,…