Consumer & Category Insights Manager (New York)

Position Summary The Consumer & Category Insights Manager will be responsible for uncovering deep consumer, shopper, and category insights that inform brand strategy, product innovation, and go-to-market execution. The Consumer & Category Insights Manager will serve as the voice of the consumer and category expert, ensuring we stay ahead of trends and meet the evolving needs of our customers across retail and DTC channels.

Key Responsibilities Lead consumer research initiatives (quantitative, qualitative, syndicated, and custom studies) to identify insights that shape brand positioning, marketing, and innovation strategies. Analyze category dynamics, competitive activity, and market trends to provide strategic recommendations to marketing, sales, and product teams. Partner with Sales and Marketing to translate consumer and category insights into clear go-to-market implications (e.g, positioning, channel/retailer strategy), ensuring insights drive execution, not just reporting. Partner with R&D and Physical Product Development to design and execute consumer validation programs (e.g., in-home use tests, rapid surveys, etc.), ensuring learnings directly inform formula and product direction. Manage relationships with research agencies, vendors, and syndicated data providers (e.g., Nielsen, IRI, NPD). Deliver compelling storytelling and presentations that bring data to life and influence senior leadership decision-making. Track and report on key performance metrics, consumer behavior shifts, and category opportunities. Champion a test-and-learn culture by designing consumer feedback loops across the innovation lifecycle.

Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Consumer Insights, Market Research, or related field; Master’s preferred. 5+ years of experience in consumer insights, market research, or category management—beauty, personal care, or CPG experience strongly preferred. Strong analytical skills with proven experience using syndicated data sources (e.g., Nielsen, IRI, NPD) and primary research methodologies. Excellent storytelling and presentation skills with the ability to translate data into actionable recommendations. Collaborative, curious, and consumer-obsessed mindset. Strong project management skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Why Join Function of Beauty? At Function of Beauty, you’ll join a dynamic, high-growth company redefining what’s possible in beauty. You’ll have the autonomy, resources, and executive visibility to make a lasting impact—while leading a team dedicated to innovation, excellence, and customer delight.