Asst Director, Prod Research
WFA Digital Insight
The demand for skilled product researchers in the insurance sector has seen significant growth, with a 25% increase in job openings over the past year. As companies like Liberty Mutual Insurance navigate the complexities of data-driven decision-making, professionals with expertise in vendor management, data analysis, and strategic thinking are in high demand. With the rise of remote work, roles like this offer the opportunity to work flexibly while driving business growth. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their analytical skills, ability to build strong relationships with vendors, and passion for innovation. Before applying, it's essential to understand the company's commitment to digital transformation and how this role contributes to that vision.
Job Description
About the Role
As an Assistant Director of Product Research at Liberty Mutual Insurance, you will be at the forefront of driving business growth through strategic vendor management and data analysis. This role is pivotal in navigating the complexities of the insurance industry, where data-driven decision-making is key. You will be working closely with various stakeholders, including business leaders and vendor partners, to identify opportunities, source innovative solutions, and measure performance.The day-to-day responsibilities of this role will involve managing a comprehensive vendor roadmap, scanning the market for emerging partners, and serving as the primary relationship manager for vendors. Your expertise in Excel and statistical software packages will be invaluable in quantifying benefits, costs, and risks associated with vendor solutions. You will also facilitate discovery sessions with line-of-business leads to translate pain points and opportunities into clear vendor requirements.
The role is part of a high-performing team that values strategic thinking, collaboration, and a passion for building win-win relationships. Liberty Mutual Insurance is committed to digital transformation, and this role plays a critical part in that journey. The company's flexible and remote work options allow for a better work-life balance, enabling you to contribute to the company's mission from anywhere.
What You Will Do
- Own the vendor ecosystem that powers quoting, underwriting, product, and line-of-business decisions
- Build and maintain a comprehensive vendor roadmap aligned with strategic objectives
- Scan the market for emerging partners and work with functional areas to develop business cases
- Serve as the primary relationship manager for vendors to drive continuous improvement
- Partner with Procurement and Legal to ensure contracts control cost, protect data, and align with corporate standards
- Facilitate discovery sessions with line-of-business leads to translate pain points and opportunities into clear vendor requirements
- Regularly communicate progress and findings to senior leadership
- Maintain a pulse on InsurTech, data science, and automation trends
- Recommend test and learn pilots that could unlock new revenue streams or operational efficiencies
- Present vendor innovation briefs and competitive intelligence to leadership forums
- Manage multiple moderate-to-high complexity vendor projects simultaneously
- Mentor junior analysts and interns, providing coaching on vendor evaluation techniques and analytics best practices
What We Are Looking For
- Master's degree or equivalent in mathematics, economics, statistics, or other quantitative field
- Minimum 6 years of relevant work experience, typically 8 years
- PhD or equivalent research beneficial
- Expert skills in Excel, PowerPoint, and statistical software packages
- Exceptional planning, analytical, decision-making, communication, and project management skills
- Experience managing projects preferred
- Strong collaboration skills with both external vendors and internal teams
- Data-driven approach to quantify impact, prioritize opportunities, and measure vendor performance
- Curious about technology and innovation, with a track record of identifying and piloting new solutions
- Ability to work in a remote setting and collaborate with distributed teams
Nice to Have
- Experience in the insurance industry, particularly in product research or vendor management
- Knowledge of InsurTech trends and emerging technologies in data science and automation
- Certification in project management or a related field
- Experience with cloud-based project management tools and software
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary range based on market value and experience
- Flexible and remote work options for a better work-life balance
- Comprehensive health insurance package
- Retirement savings plan with company match
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development opportunities, including training and education support
- Access to cutting-edge technology and innovative tools
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment with a team of professionals
How to Stand Out
- Tip: Develop a strong portfolio showcasing your experience in vendor management, data analysis, and strategic thinking.
- Ensure your resume and cover letter highlight your expertise in Excel and statistical software packages.
- Prepare to discuss your approach to building win-win relationships with vendors and driving business growth through data-driven decision-making.
- Research Liberty Mutual Insurance's commitment to digital transformation and be ready to discuss how your skills align with this vision.
- During interviews, emphasize your ability to work independently in a remote setting and collaborate with distributed teams.
- Be prepared to provide specific examples of projects you've managed, including your role, responsibilities, and outcomes.
- Consider reaching out to current or former employees to gain insights into the company culture and expectations.
This is a remote position listed on WFA Digital, the platform for professionals who work from anywhere. Browse more remote jobs across all categories.