Are you a data-driven professional looking to apply your analytical expertise in the dynamic world of communications and public affairs? Join the APCO AI & Intelligence team, the strategic research and data science consultancy within global advocacy and advisory firm APCO, in Washington D.C., Chicago, Raleigh or New York.
In this role, you’ll execute data science projects and collaborate with our team of specialists to deliver powerful insights for a diverse client portfolio including corporations, associations, nonprofits, and government entities. As a Data Science Research Manager, you will leverage statistical analysis and modeling techniques to uncover valuable insights for communication strategy, trend prediction, and audience understanding. This hands-on role includes day-to-day management of research projects utilizing various data science techniques including data extraction, data analysis, data mining, and data retrieval. You will be involved in projects that use a variety of research techniques, from secondary research to digital and social media analysis, from opinion research to structured and unstructured data analytics, and even custom AI solutions.
The ideal candidate is analytically minded with a strong foundation in data science principles and excellent execution skills. You should be comfortable supporting multiple assignments, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and translating complex data into compelling narratives.
This position offers significant growth potential for someone ready to develop their expertise in an entrepreneurial and creative environment.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 6-10 years of relevant experience in data science, social media analytics or digital research, preferably in a communications, public relations, advertising or consulting firm
• Demonstrated success in leading research projects utilizing major social media monitoring platforms (such as Talkwalker, Meltwater, Infegy, or Cision), including advanced proficiency in writing Boolean queries and extracting actionable insights from social data
• Bachelor’s degree in statistics, computer science, machine learning, data science, market research, business, psychology or related field; advanced degree preferred
• Proficiency in advanced analytical and data science-based techniques, notably predictive analytics and forecasting, including statistical and analytical programs, and programming languages (e.g., Python, R, SPSS, etc.)
• Knowledge of digital and social media research tools (e.g., Talkwalker, Brandwatch, Audiense, Meltwater, etc.) a plus, and ability to write complex Boolean language queries for advanced searches
• Knowledge of advanced tools such as regression, cluster analysis, PCA, modeling, factor analysis, and AI/ML to derive meaningful insights from structured and unstructured data is a plus
• Excellent project management, time management and organizational skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Experience in leading and mentoring a team of researchers or analysts is a plus
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is a plus
• Experience working on public affairs, corporate reputation, crisis management, or communications research is a plus

• Deliver high-quality data science-based research studies through hands-on activities, including developing research approaches, conducting analytics, reporting results, and providing key insights to colleagues and clients
• Execute and oversee data science research projects through comprehensive media analysis, including:
• Developing and managing effective monitoring queries to track online conversations, sentiment, and trends
• Creating and maintaining dashboards and reporting structures that transform complex digital data into actionable insights
• Design and implement research studies using quantitative and qualitative data from media and other digital sources
• Ensure methodological rigor and quality control across research projects
• Utilize AI tools and methodologies to speed up and deepen research findings
• Lead multiple concurrent projects with tight deadlines while maintaining quality standards
• Support the continuous development of new data science products and methodologies
• Collaborate with internal teams to plan projects, set expectations and create deliverables
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to knowledge sharing within the organization
• Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies in social media analytics
• Provide actionable insights and recommendations based on data analysis to support marketing, public relations and competitive intelligence initiatives
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate social media insights into broader business strategies
• Support business development through contributions to proposals and capability presentations