I am a market research director and qualitative insights specialist with 17+ years leading global research programs across CPG, food & beverage, technology, financial services, healthcare, and media. Expert in qualitative methodologies—moderating, in-depth interviews, digital communities, ethnography, concept testing, and path-to-purchase exploration—with complementary quantitative experience. I translate complex consumer data into clear, actionable insights that guide strategic decisions for Fortune 500 brands. I excel at client management, cross-functional collaboration, and mentoring research teams.

Christian Ruzich

I am a market research director and qualitative insights specialist with 17+ years leading global research programs across CPG, food & beverage, technology, financial services, healthcare, and media. Expert in qualitative methodologies—moderating, in-depth interviews, digital communities, ethnography, concept testing, and path-to-purchase exploration—with complementary quantitative experience. I translate complex consumer data into clear, actionable insights that guide strategic decisions for Fortune 500 brands. I excel at client management, cross-functional collaboration, and mentoring research teams.

Available to hire

I am a market research director and qualitative insights specialist with 17+ years leading global research programs across CPG, food & beverage, technology, financial services, healthcare, and media. Expert in qualitative methodologies—moderating, in-depth interviews, digital communities, ethnography, concept testing, and path-to-purchase exploration—with complementary quantitative experience.

I translate complex consumer data into clear, actionable insights that guide strategic decisions for Fortune 500 brands. I excel at client management, cross-functional collaboration, and mentoring research teams.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Independent Qualitative & Quantitative Research Consultant at Curion Insights (Contracted)
August 1, 2023 - Present
Lead full-service qualitative and quantitative research projects; manage qualitative engagements (IDIs, focus groups, online sessions) for multinational food & beverage brands; develop discussion guides, facilitate briefings, and ensure alignment with client objectives; deliver actionable insights and strategic recommendations for brand, product, and innovation teams.
Market Research Consultant at Insight Global
June 1, 2024 - October 1, 2024
Contracted to support CFA Institute’s global member insights initiatives; moderated interviews with charterholders and members to evaluate new programs and identify opportunities to increase member value; synthesized findings into clear recommendations and partnered with cross-functional teams to shape program development using member-driven insights.
Research Director, Qualitative Center of Excellence at Maru/Matchbox (Stamford Industries)
July 1, 2021 - August 1, 2023
Designed and executed strategic qualitative research programs across CPG, technology, and financial services; served as internal qualitative subject-matter expert, advising Client Services teams and uncovering up-sell opportunities within quantitative accounts; partnered with Business Development to identify new opportunities and develop proposals; managed and mentored research managers; supervised contractors and freelance moderators; delivered insights with a strong focus on consumer motivations, brand strategy, and product development.
Senior Principal Analyst, Research & Advisory at Gartner
April 1, 2019 - February 1, 2020
Produced insights and best practices research supporting marketing executives in campaign strategy, social marketing, and Gen Z engagement; authored Gartner’s first published note on TikTok; conducted advisory sessions with clients; collaborated with quantitative/qualitative teams to design primary research addressing emerging marketing priorities.
Senior Research Director at Blackstone Group
June 1, 2017 - April 1, 2019
Directed end-to-end custom research programs mixing qualitative and quantitative methodologies; designed proposals, questionnaires, sampling plans, and project frameworks; moderated focus groups and interviews; conducted data analysis and synthesized findings into executive reports; identified and secured new business opportunities through partnership with business development.
Director, Project Consulting at The Futures Company
July 1, 2013 - January 1, 2016
Integrated into the Project Consulting team after TRU purchase; Led integrated consulting programs combining qualitative research, quantitative analysis, and foresight/trends insights; served as a thought leader in Tech & Media practice, shaping strategic direction for client engagements; guided junior consultants and coordinated cross-practice work streams to deliver cohesive insights.
Senior Consultant at TRU
July 1, 2008 - June 1, 2013
Led qualitative research with a specialization in Millennial and youth audiences; developed innovative methodologies, including early adoption of Facebook as a qualitative platform; served as the internal expert on online qualitative research, driving cross-practice adoption and new business growth.
Independent Qualitative & Quantitative Research Consultant at Independent Consultant (Remote)
August 1, 2023 - Present
Contracted by Curion Insights to lead full-service research projects, including design, moderating, analysis, reporting, and client presentations for multinational food & beverage brands. Manage qualitative engagements (IDIs, focus groups, online sessions), build discussion guides, briefings, and ensure alignment with client objectives. Deliver actionable insights and strategic recommendations for brand, product, and innovation teams.

Education

Bachelor of Arts at Carleton College
January 11, 2030 - December 12, 2025
Bachelor of Arts in History at Carleton College
January 11, 2030 - December 12, 2025

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Consumer Goods, Software & Internet, Financial Services, Healthcare, Media & Entertainment