Ipsos Data Processing Senior Manager

Ipsos is an innovative, entrepreneurial, client-focused organisation, providing research services to clients on a global basis.

We set ourselves high standards and aim to work collaboratively in partnership with our teams in order to service our clients most effectively.

We are a prime source of holistic market information services that enhance planning and decision making in the Private, NGO and Public Sectors across sub-Saharan Africa.

We are an integrated media research & media monitoring, social and market research company providing evidence and insights which inform and advise on a wide range of business and social issues.

Senior Manager, Data Processing - Pan Africa Hub

This role exists to ensure that Ipsos Pan Africa has the required data processing capabilities to meet our clients’ needs. 

The Manager is responsible for the management of the respective Teams in the Pan Africa Hub in Nairobi. Leads the teams to deliver data processing services as defined in the scope of business of DP Pan Africa.

The role holder will direct and manage the Data Processing Hub activities in line with the Department and Divisional strategy, to create quality, faster and more robust deliveries of market research analysis to clients. Ensures the BU’s data processing requirements are met through effective resourcing and functionality. Responsible for meeting the goals based on KPIs.

The role holder will focus on optimizing Ipsos Pan Africa’s efficiencies in data processing processes and systems, and on developing the company’s ability to drive people, process and Information Technology improvements aimed at maintaining the highest levels of data quality and service to clients.

Key responsibilities include:

• Management of the Pan Africa Hub DP resources to ensure the they provide clients with consistently high quality services
• Acts as a coach to Team Heads, providing them with guidance and advice on managing their teams
• Ensures teams are suitably resourced, with skilled staff, and with appropriate training
• Provides support and guidance to team heads in capacity and resource planning
• Developing and maintaining necessary strategies aimed at enhancing the data management processes with particular focus on the quantitative data capture
• Optimizing the application of the data processing software via expert capability enabling more timely and cost effective development of ‘user friendly’ survey based market research to clients.
• Continuous review of the current processes within in DP – scripting, questionnaire design, data processing, setting standards across the various points and ensuring such are enforced.
• Continually recommend, data handling and data analysis systems to ensure competitive differentiation
• Utilize internal data collected to analyse trends, with the aim of improving current processes
• Participate in job set-up meetings to ensure clear understanding of data processing requirements
• Advice Project Managers on estimated time required to complete a job and other key timings.
• Provide questionnaire design consultancy to the business units in respect of complex job assignments.
• Keep abreast of current trends within market research systems and technology, in order to maintain personal skills/knowledge base to deliver leading edge
• Monitors and efficiently administrates the working time of the direct reports to ensure efficiency in the daily activities performed by the team and a balanced workload.
• Monthly management reporting and analysis of the activity for the department
• Coach and mentor Data Processing Executives on understanding and interpreting the technical aspects related SPSS / Quantum, etc application software.
• Manage error-free creation of data for projects within specified time, resource and budget restrictions.
• Recognize opportunities and initiate improvements on workflow and processes
• Financial Management
• Continuously review and update the staff capabilities within the DP and liaise with the Operations Manager and the HR Manager to ensure that capacity is kept at an optimal level while ensuring efficiency

The person:

To be successful in this role you will have:

• First Degree in Mathematics or Statistics or a relevant business related field. A postgraduate qualification in data management will be an added advantaged
• A minimum of 7 years experience in a full service market research company with at least 5 years experience as a Data Processing Manager;

Operations experience or closely related experience

• Experience with outsourced Data Processing Services
• Comprehensive knowledge of the Data Processing operation, and related fields (i.e. Coding Validation, Spec writing)
• Good knowledge of general programming techniques (i.e. VB Script & ASCII)
• Previous experience in managing people at least 3-5 years. Operations experience or closely related experience, two of which must have been at the level of Computer Operations
• Knows different types of studies such as Product test, Pack test, Pricing, CSM, Brand Vision etc
• Good knowledge of general research principles and practices as they apply to the application and use of electronic data processing equipment
• Team management and work scheduling experience
• Sound trouble-shooting skills
• Advanced Data Analysis skills with proficiency in SPSS, Quanvert and Quantum
• Proficiency in creating new processes by being able to evaluate existing, and developing new solutions as needed
• Outstanding Communication and Leadership skills
• Strong People Development skills
• The ability to develop partnerships with others in the industry
• The ability to work cross-functionally and across geographies within Ipsos
• A proven record of developing relationships with clients
• Able to work under pressure and meet aggressive deadlines
• Ability to write reports, routine business correspondence and prepare presentations including the ability to prepare business charts and graphs
• Commitment to exceptional client service
• High integrity

If you are this person, then you are right for us and we are right for you!
Please email a CV and covering letter explaining why you are interested in this position to careers-ke@ipsos.com. 

Applications will not be considered if covering letter is not attached. 

Include “Senior Manager, Data Processing” in the cover letter and email subject header.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Deadline for application: Friday, 22nd Aug 2013, 5pm