Director, Research Services

Pulse Labs AI, Inc.

About The Position

We are looking for a Director, Research Services to own and accelerate the growth of one of our core business units. This is a leadership role with real scope: you will set strategy, own key client relationships, and build the business models that take Pulse Labs from where we are today to where we are going. You will work with a focused team of Account Managers and Sales professionals, backed by a world-class delivery organization. Your job is to grow the business, not manage every study. If you're an operator who thrives in ambiguous, fast-moving environments, has a track record of growing revenue, and wants to do it at a company with exceptional market positioning and momentum, this role may be for you.

Requirements

You understand the key drivers of a services business, including revenue, margin, and client satisfaction.
You are a natural relationship builder. Clients trust you, and you know how to turn a satisfied client into a growing one.
You thrive with autonomy while still working collaboratively within the constraints of the business.
You are curious about where UX research and AI are heading, and energized by the idea of being at the forefront of that shift.
Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Operations, or equivalent experience
6+ years in general management, operations, or professional services leadership
Demonstrated ownership of P&L, budgets, and revenue forecasting
Strong background in client services, account management, or professional services
Proven track record of driving revenue growth while maintaining quality and margin
Exceptional communication skills and executive presence

Nice To Haves

Experience closing new clients at Fortune 500 companies
Background in UX research, market research, or software development services
Experience scaling a business or business unit through a high-growth phase
MBA or relevant graduate degree
International markets experience

Responsibilities

Drive performance of the Research Services business unit, including revenue tracking, forecasting, and margin management in partnership with leadership.
Set and communicate a compelling vision for the business unit: one that aligns with company goals and responds to how the UX research landscape is evolving.
Develop and execute go-to-market strategies that drive profitable growth at scale, with an emphasis on repeatable, product-led solutions over one-off engagements.
Partner with executive leadership on pricing, resource planning, and growth investments; provide regular visibility into performance trends and risks.
Serve as a trusted strategic advisor to our most important clients, owning the relationship at a senior level and acting as the point of escalation when it matters.
Drive new client acquisition and expand revenue within existing accounts through renewals, upsells, and cross-sell opportunities.
Guide Account Managers and Sales staff on long-term account strategy and how to unlock value for clients at the intersection of UX research and AI.
Translate client needs into compelling research solutions and service offerings, finding the creative approach that serves both the client and the business.
Partner closely with the Director of Enterprise Services to ensure studies are scoped, staffed, and delivered to a high standard. (Delivery is owned by a dedicated Enterprise Services team, which means you stay focused on growth.)
Identify emerging trends and opportunities in the UX research space, and position Pulse Labs to capitalize on them ahead of the market.
Lead and develop a focused team of Account Managers and Sales professionals within Research Services.
Set clear performance expectations, build a culture of ownership and continuous improvement, and make the team better over time.
Partner cross-functionally with Product, Engineering, Design, and Enterprise Services to build integrated solutions.