Name: Simon Lincoln
Degree course: BSc Sports Management
Current position: Research Manager, Ipsos MORI
Date joined: 2004

Why Ipsos MORI?

At the time, Ipsos MORI were one of the only companies conducting sports sponsorship evaluation on a large scale. I was also impressed by the training on offer, and the chance to gain experience in other forms of communications research.

I’ve been here 4 years now, and I find the work fascinating. I get to work with sport sponsors, I’m continually challenged by the work and have been asked to take on new responsibilities with each step up the food chain.

What does it take to do well in your business?

The qualities differ depending on the role you undertake. For instance, researchers heavily involved with the set up of projects and the production of reports need to have good attention to detail. If you’re going to be liaising with clients, you need to have a good understanding of their business environment and be able to explain the research and recommend actions.

Above all, you should be able to communicate effectively and maintain perspective in all situations.

What are the best aspects of working with Ipsos MORI?

Well, you just can’t beat the satisfaction of a post-presentation pint, knowing that you "nailed it". Building up to client presentations can be pretty nerve racking, but I get a lot of support from my colleagues, and when the meeting goes well and the client thanks you at the end, it’s more than just a relief. It’s a really great feeling.

The social side of things is pretty good too. Ipsos MORI is a fairly young environment so there are regular trips to the pub for a social drink after work, and there are always company parties. Our recent summer party was huge.

Then there’s the career progression. I have just been promoted to a Research Manager, so now I spend a lot less time conducting research, and a lot more time on the overall running of my department. It’s a whole new challenge and skill set to learn, which is great.