Sr. Manager, Consumer Insights, Foresight & UX

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr. Manager, Consumer Insights, Foresight & UX

Company: SAMYANG AMERICA INC

Location: Brea, CA, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Consumer Insights & Innovation Strategy

Date Posted: February 27, 2026

Experience Level: 7-12+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads problem definition, cultural signal tracking, and rapid user testing for the Innovation Lab portfolio, ensuring a strong consumer-centric foundation for new product development.

• Focuses on discovery and problem-framing, rather than routine tracking research, to identify unmet consumer needs and emerging market trends.

• Translates complex consumer insights and foresight into actionable product direction and refined user experience strategies.

• Partners closely with Marketing and R&D teams to drive iterative product development cycles based on continuous learning and feedback loops.

• Develops and maintains an innovation knowledge repository, synthesizing foresight inputs to inform future strategic initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a consumer-packaged goods (CPG) company known for its focus on Gen Z and viral trends, indicating a need for a candidate adept at identifying and capitalizing on emerging cultural shifts and fast-paced consumer behaviors. The emphasis on "discovery and problem-framing" suggests a strategic, forward-thinking approach rather than a purely analytical or reporting function.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Define and articulate clear, compelling innovation briefs grounded in identified unmet consumer needs and market opportunities.

• Design and execute rapid qualitative and quantitative consumer testing methodologies to validate hypotheses and gather actionable feedback.

• Proactively identify and analyze emerging cultural and behavioral signals that can inform future product innovation and brand strategy.

• Refine product concepts, user experience designs, and go-to-market strategies based on iterative feedback from consumer testing and market analysis.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, R&D, and product development teams to ensure seamless integration of insights into the innovation pipeline.

• Develop and manage an innovation knowledge repository, consolidating foresight inputs, research findings, and consumer feedback for strategic reference.

• Champion a consumer-centric approach throughout the innovation process, ensuring alignment with the brand's mission to resonate with the next generation of food lovers.

• Conduct trend research and competitive analysis to identify opportunities for differentiation and market leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach to research and a strong emphasis on translating insights into tangible product improvements. The "rapid research sprints" and "iterative learning loops" suggest a dynamic, agile environment where quick decision-making and adaptation are critical.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field such as Market Research, Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Business Administration, or a related discipline is typically expected for a Senior Manager role.

Experience: 7-12+ years of progressive experience in consumer insights, UX research, innovation strategy, or a closely related field.

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to design and execute rapid qualitative and quantitative research sprints, including methodologies like user interviews, focus groups, surveys, and concept testing.

• Strong qualitative research capabilities with expertise in ethnographic research, observational studies, and in-depth interviews.

• Demonstrated experience in translating complex research findings and consumer insights into clear, actionable product and experience design recommendations.

• Proven ability to identify, analyze, and synthesize emerging cultural and behavioral trends relevant to consumer markets.

• Experience working effectively in cross-functional teams, particularly with product management, marketing, and R&D departments.

• Familiarity with innovation lab environments, early-stage venture development, or agile product development lifecycles.

• Experience in foresight research, trend forecasting, and competitive landscape analysis.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience within the Food, Beverage, or Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) categories.

• Familiarity with advanced statistical analysis and data visualization tools.

• Experience with user journey mapping and persona development.

• Knowledge of design thinking principles and methodologies.

• A strong network within the consumer insights and innovation research community.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "rapid research sprints," "foresight," and "cultural signals" suggests a need for a candidate who can operate with agility and a forward-looking perspective, rather than relying solely on traditional, long-term research projects. The "7-12+ years" experience level implies a need for strategic leadership and proven project ownership.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case studies demonstrating the successful definition of innovation briefs based on identified consumer tensions and unmet needs.

• Examples of rapid qualitative and quantitative research projects, showcasing the research design, execution, and key findings.

• Demonstrations of how insights were translated into actionable product or experience design improvements, with evidence of impact.

• Documentation of foresight or trend research initiatives, illustrating the identification of emerging signals and their strategic implications.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow examples illustrating the process of identifying consumer needs and framing innovation problems.

• Methodologies used for rapid user testing and feedback integration into product development.

• Systems or frameworks used for tracking cultural shifts and market trends.

• Examples of how research findings were used to refine product concepts or user experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to showcase a portfolio that demonstrates their ability to move quickly from insight discovery to actionable product direction, emphasizing a structured yet agile approach to innovation research. The focus is on impact and tangible outcomes rather than just the research process itself.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $110,000 - $140,000 per year. This range is competitive for a Senior Manager role in the Brea, CA area, considering the required experience and specialized skillset in consumer insights and innovation.

Benefits:

• Annual Incentive Bonus: Performance-based bonus opportunities.

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• Life Insurance: Financial protection for beneficiaries.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) / Flexible Time Off (FTO): Generous leave policies for work-life balance.

• 401(k) Plan with Company Match: Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, standard business hours. Flexibility may be required to accommodate project deadlines and cross-functional team needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is within the expected band for a Senior Manager with 7-12+ years of experience in a specialized research and innovation role in Southern California. The benefits package is typical for a full-time position at a company of this size and industry, offering a comprehensive suite of employee support.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage, specifically focused on innovative, trend-driven products targeting Gen Z. Samyang America is positioning itself as a leader in shaping food culture through viral trends and bold flavors.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the presence of an ADP Workforce Now portal suggests a company with a structured HR and recruitment process, likely ranging from medium to large. The mention of an "Innovation Lab" implies a dedicated team within a larger organization.

Founded: Samyang America is part of the larger Samyang Group, a conglomerate with a long history (founded in 1960s in Korea). This indicates a stable corporate backing with a strong foundation, while the "America" division focuses on modern, trend-forward strategies.

Team Structure:

• The role will likely be part of a dedicated Innovation Lab or Product Development team.

• Close collaboration is expected with Marketing, R&D, and potentially Brand Management teams.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making, with a strong emphasis on consumer insights and user feedback.

• Agile and iterative approach to product development, leveraging rapid testing and learning loops.

• Focus on identifying and capitalizing on emerging cultural and behavioral trends.

• Collaborative environment that encourages fresh ideas and bold experimentation.

Company Website: https://www.samyangamerica.com/ (Based on domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: Samyang America's branding as the "#1 Gen Z brand" and its focus on "viral trends" and "bold individuality" suggest a dynamic, fast-paced, and potentially informal work environment that values creativity and risk-taking. This contrasts with a more traditional corporate structure, implying a need for a candidate who can thrive in both innovation-focused agility and corporate support.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a "Sr. Manager" position, signifying a mid-to-senior level of responsibility. It requires strategic thinking, independent execution, and the ability to influence cross-functional teams. The focus is on leading specific innovation initiatives and driving research strategy within the lab.

Reporting Structure: The Sr. Manager will likely report to a Director or VP of Innovation, Product Development, or Marketing within Samyang America. They will collaborate closely with peers in Marketing and R&D, and potentially manage junior researchers or analysts over time.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is directly tied to the success of new product development and innovation within the company. By ensuring products are grounded in consumer needs and refined through user testing, this position directly influences market reception, sales performance, and the company's ability to maintain its "Gen Z brand" leadership and stay ahead of cultural trends.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership: Potential to advance to Director-level roles overseeing broader innovation research functions or managing a larger team.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like foresight, UX, or particular consumer segments.

• Strategic Influence: Become a key advisor on innovation strategy, shaping the future product pipeline and brand direction.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain deeper experience across marketing, product development, and R&D, broadening business acumen.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within a rapidly evolving consumer goods market. The emphasis on foresight and trend identification positions the candidate to be at the forefront of market shifts, offering significant strategic influence and career advancement potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as "On-site" in Brea, CA. This suggests a traditional office environment within Samyang America's U.S. headquarters.

Office Location(s): Brea, California, United States. This is a suburban location in Orange County, known for its business parks and accessibility within the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative workspace designed to foster interaction between innovation, marketing, and R&D teams.

• Access to necessary research tools, software, and potentially dedicated spaces for user testing or ideation sessions.

• A dynamic and fast-paced environment, reflecting the company's focus on viral trends and rapid product development.

• Potential for exposure to food product development, including sensory testing or concept validation environments.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected. However, given the nature of innovation research and potential for rapid sprints, some flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines or participate in time-sensitive consumer interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: As an on-site role, this position offers the benefits of direct collaboration and immersion in the company's culture. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic office setting that supports agile innovation processes.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications to assess qualifications against the job requirements.

• Technical Interview: Likely an interview focused on your experience with consumer insights, UX research methodologies, foresight, and rapid testing. Expect to discuss specific research projects and your approach to problem definition.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio showcasing past work, or complete a take-home assignment/case study related to identifying consumer needs or developing innovation concepts for a hypothetical product.

• Cross-functional Interviews: Meetings with key stakeholders from Marketing, R&D, and potentially senior leadership to assess collaboration skills and strategic fit.

• Final Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager or senior executive to finalize the decision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Impact: Focus on how your research directly influenced product decisions, consumer satisfaction, or business outcomes. Quantify results wherever possible.

• Showcase Agility: Emphasize projects involving rapid research sprints, quick turnaround times, and iterative learning.

• Demonstrate Foresight: Include examples of how you identified emerging trends and translated them into actionable innovation strategies.

• Problem-Framing: Clearly articulate how you defined problems and unmet needs before jumping to solutions.

• Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually engaging, and easy to navigate. Use visuals (charts, graphs, product mockups) to illustrate your points.

• Tailor to Samyang: Understand Samyang's brand (Gen Z, viral trends, food culture) and tailor your examples to align with their focus.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brand: Research Samyang America's products, target audience (Gen Z), and marketing strategies.

• Familiarize with Methodologies: Be ready to discuss various qualitative (interviews, ethnography) and quantitative (surveys, concept testing) methods, especially those suited for rapid iteration.

• Practice Trend Analysis: Be prepared to discuss current trends in the food/beverage industry, particularly those impacting younger demographics.

• Define "Consumer Tension": Be able to articulate what consumer tensions are and how you identify them.

• Prepare to Innovate: Think about potential innovation opportunities within the CPG space, especially for the target demographic.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely heavily weigh a candidate's ability to demonstrate practical application of research skills to drive tangible innovation outcomes. A strong portfolio that highlights agile methods and foresight is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Qualitative Research Platforms: Tools for conducting user interviews, usability testing, and remote qualitative research (e.g., UserTesting.com, Lookback, Zoom, Google Meet).

• Survey Platforms: Tools for designing and distributing quantitative surveys (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics, Google Forms, Typeform).

• Data Analysis Software: Tools for qualitative data analysis (e.g., NVivo, Dovetail) and potentially quantitative analysis (e.g., SPSS, R, Python for statistical analysis).

• Collaboration Tools: Platforms for team collaboration and project management (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams, Asana, Trello).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Dashboarding Tools: For visualizing research findings and trends (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, Google Data Studio).

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Excel or Google Sheets for data manipulation and basic analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, familiarity with how consumer data is managed and utilized within marketing automation platforms or customer data platforms might be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in a range of qualitative and quantitative research tools is expected. The ability to synthesize data from various sources and present it clearly through dashboards is also a valuable asset.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Creativity: A drive to explore new ideas, challenge the status quo, and develop groundbreaking products.

• Consumer Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving the needs and desires of consumers, especially Gen Z.

• Agility & Speed: The ability to move quickly, adapt to changing market dynamics, and execute in rapid cycles.

• Collaboration & Partnership: A strong belief in working together across departments to achieve shared goals.

• Boldness & Individuality: Encouraging unique perspectives and the courage to lead trends.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly cross-functional, requiring close partnerships with Marketing, R&D, and product teams.

• Open communication and feedback loops are essential to drive iterative development.

• A culture that values diverse perspectives and collaborative problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: Samyang America's emphasis on "bold individuality" and "shaping the future of food culture" suggests a culture that encourages proactive contribution, creative thinking, and a willingness to experiment. Candidates should align with these values to succeed in this environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Pace: Keeping up with fast-moving consumer trends and the demands of rapid research sprints can be demanding.

• Translating Ambiguity: Identifying clear consumer needs and actionable insights from potentially ambiguous cultural signals or early-stage concepts.

• Balancing Speed and Rigor: Ensuring research is both fast enough for agile development and robust enough to yield reliable insights.

• Cross-functional Alignment: Effectively communicating complex insights and gaining buy-in from diverse stakeholders with different priorities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Trends: Staying at the forefront of consumer behavior, food culture, and innovation methodologies.

• Methodological Advancement: Exploring and implementing new research techniques and technologies.

• Strategic Influence: Developing skills in strategic foresight and long-term innovation planning.

• Leadership Development: Growing into a leadership role within the innovation function.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a significant opportunity for professional growth by immersing the candidate in cutting-edge CPG innovation, trend analysis, and agile research practices. The challenges are directly linked to the dynamic nature of the market and the company's innovative spirit.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you identified an emerging consumer trend and how you translated it into a product or innovation opportunity." (Focus on foresight, methodology, and impact)

• "Walk us through a complex innovation brief you developed. What were the key consumer tensions, and how did you validate them?" (Focus on problem definition and research design)

• "How do you approach rapid user testing in an agile development environment? What are the trade-offs between speed and depth?" (Focus on methodological agility and critical thinking)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Samyang America's brand and its focus on Gen Z and viral trends?" (Demonstrate research and genuine interest)

• "How do you see your role contributing to Samyang's mission of shaping food culture?" (Align your skills with company goals)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type (e.g., Foresight, UX Research, Concept Testing) or by impact.

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a story: the challenge, your approach, the insights, the solution/recommendation, and the outcome.

• Metrics: Quantify your impact whenever possible (e.g., "led to a 15% increase in concept appeal," "identified a key unmet need that informed product development").

• Visuals: Use clear visuals, charts, and images to support your narrative. Show, don't just tell.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key highlights efficiently, as time will be limited.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to showcase their ability to not only conduct research but also to strategically apply it to drive business outcomes in a fast-paced, trend-driven industry. A clear, impactful, and tailored portfolio is essential.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Sr. Manager, Consumer Insights, Foresight & UX position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP recruitment portal link.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight experience in consumer insights, UX research, foresight, and innovation strategy, using keywords from the job description (e.g., "rapid research sprints," "cultural signal tracking," "innovation briefs," "CPG"). Quantify achievements with data whenever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest projects that demonstrate your ability to define problems, conduct agile research, translate insights into actionable product direction, and identify market trends. Focus on impact and results.

• Research Samyang America: Understand their products, target audience (Gen Z), brand positioning, and recent marketing campaigns. Familiarize yourself with their "viral trends" and "food culture" mission.

• Practice Your Narrative: Be ready to articulate your experience and approach to problem-solving, research methodologies, and cross-functional collaboration in a clear and compelling manner, especially when presenting your portfolio.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.