Director of Research and Consulting
This newly created position is a leadership role within a fast-growing payments analytics and consulting firm. The Director of Research and Consulting is responsible for leading a team of analysts and payments consultants, ensuring the successful delivery of research projects and consulting engagements. This person will oversee project execution, manage resources (including both full-time employees and 1099 consultants), and support revenue growth by providing subject matter expertise (SME) in the payments industry.
The ideal candidate has 10+ years of experience in the payments industry, specifically on the merchant acceptance side, and at least 5 years in a leadership role. This role is not a sales position, but the director will actively support business development efforts by joining client calls, explaining project capabilities, and ensuring seamless project execution from contract signing to completion.
Key Responsibilities
• Project & Team Leadership: Lead a team of analysts and consultants, ensuring projects are executed on time, within scope, and on budget.
• Client Engagement: Work closely with clients to understand their needs and deliver high-quality research and consulting solutions.
• Project Execution: Oversee the kickoff, execution, and completion of signed projects, ensuring client satisfaction.
• Resource Management: Manage a mix of full-time employees (W2) and remote consultants 1099), focusing on retention and efficiency.
• Process Improvement: Establish and refine processes in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Strategic Support: Join sales calls as the payments SME, helping clients understand how the firm can meet their needs.
• Compliance & Quality: Ensure adherence to industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Business Development Support: Assist in securing new consulting engagements without being in a direct sales role.
Required Experience & Skills
• 10+ years of experience in the payments industry (merchant acceptance side).
• 5+ years of leadership experience, managing teams and complex projects.
• 5+ years of client-facing experience.
• Strong organizational and operational management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook).
• Experience managing remote consultants (1099) and in-house employees (W2).
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Bonus Skills
• Experience conducting survey research and writing white papers.
• Familiarity with payments industry regulations and emerging trends.
Why Join Us?
• Entrepreneurial & Growing: Opportunity to make a significant impact in a fast-growing firm.
• Leadership Role: Influence strategy and operations while mentoring a team.
• Challenging & Rewarding: Work with a high volume of diverse projects in a dynamic industry.
• Competitive Compensation: Up to $140K base salary + up to $30K annual bonus.
• Strong Benefits: Unlimited PTO, retirement plan match, health, dental, and vision coverage.
What Success Looks Like
In the first year, the Director of Research and Consulting will have:
• Ensured smooth execution of projects, meeting budgets and client expectations.
• Improved internal processes and team efficiency.
• Enhanced client satisfaction through expert guidance and strategic consulting.
• Contributed to revenue growth by successfully supporting sales efforts.
This is a high-impact leadership role for someone passionate about the payments industry and consulting services—someone who thrives in a fast-moving, high-growth environment and is ready to lead teams, refine processes, and drive results.
Ready to make an impact? Apply today!