Projects and Research Manager

About the Projects and Research Department

The Projects and Research team at Lightstone delivers high quality market research, customer experience measurement and bespoke project solutions. We manage complex, high value projects across multiple industries, with a particular focus on the automotive sector. Our department includes skilled Project and Research Managers, a dedicated Quality Auditing team and a professional outbound research team.

We work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where accuracy, insight and delivery are key. Our focus is on translating data into meaningful stories that support decision making for our clients. The team thrives on curiosity, adaptability and a commitment to continuous improvement, while maintaining a strong connection to Lightstone’s values of participation, responsiveness and winning together.

As an Intermediate-level Projects and Research Manager, you will be responsible for managing and delivering research and bespoke projects from start to finish. You will play a key role in ensuring projects are scoped correctly, timelines are met, and outputs meet quality standards.

You will work closely with Senior Managers, internal teams and external stakeholders to coordinate delivery, resolve issues, and communicate progress clearly. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys problem-solving, has a passion for data-driven insights, and takes pride in seeing projects through to completion.

While not a formal leadership role, you will guide project contributors, collaborate across departments, and contribute to process improvements. The position demands focus, ownership and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage research and bespoke projects from initial scoping through to final delivery, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope and to the required quality standards.
• Develop project plans, timelines, budgets and deliverables, and monitor progress throughout the project lifecycle.
• Work closely with clients to understand their requirements, provide regular updates and ensure expectations are effectively managed.
• Coordinate internal teams, including Project and Research Managers, Quality Auditors and research teams, to ensure seamless project execution.
• Develop and maintain strong project documentation, including project briefs, schedules, progress reports and status updates.
• Identify project risks, issues and dependencies, and proactively implement solutions to minimise impact on delivery.
• Oversee data collection and research activities, ensuring accuracy, consistency and adherence to agreed methodologies.