30Under30 Honouree: Mateusz Chariasz
Great to hear from Significant Insights Global 30 under 30 honouree Mateusz Chariasz who combines curiosity, knowledge and a drive to find valuable insights, whether by leading research projects, supporting teamwork or ensuring data is accurate and useful.
So, how did you get into the industry, and take us through how you got to this point?
My journey into the research industry has been one of evolution and discovery. I started in media sales, working across press, online platforms, and radio publishers, where I developed a deep understanding of the media landscape.
As my curiosity grew, I transitioned from sales to the analysis department at a leading radio group. This role allowed me to leverage research in supporting advertising sales strategies, combining creativity with data-driven insights.
Finally, I took the leap into research creation, joining a company specializing in audience measurement across TV, radio, outdoor and online platforms. This step marked my transformation from a research consumer to an active contributor, shaping how organizations understand and use audience data.
Why should anyone consider a career in market research, data and insights?
Working in market research is an incredible privilege. It allows you to explore the world, understand its dynamics, and work across different markets (in my case 17!). It’s an intellectually stimulating field where you collaborate with people who are both curious and highly skilled.
This career positions you as a knowledge creator, helping organizations, from brands to social institutions, uncover insights that shape strategies and drive impact. The joy of conducting meaningful research, crafting well-tailored strategies, and seeing your work make a difference is unparalleled.
Career paths are rarely without challenges. Can you share an honest moment from your career when things didn’t go quite according to plan, but the lessons remain with you to this day?
My biggest challenges came from the high expectations I had for myself. At the start of my career, I thought I needed to complete every course and certification while giving 100% at work to succeed. Over time, I learned the importance of balance, rest, and self-care to grow both personally and professionally.
Taking on too much taught me to prioritize better. Now, I focus on what truly matters, choosing actions that benefit both me and my business partners, without pushing myself too far.
What two things should junior researchers focus on as they progress in their careers?
Trust your intuition. Follow your curiosity, explore the areas that excite you, and embrace what fuels your passion for research. My path from online to outdoor media, through press, TV, and radio was driven by a desire to learn more, even when others advised me to stay put in a “perfect” job.
Value methodology. Work in environments where research quality is paramount. A strong methodological foundation is like a craftsman’s workshop: organized, equipped, and full of potential. Avoid places that compromise on standards—it’s essential to maintain a commitment to excellence.
Do you have any advice for our sector?
Our industry must focus on data quality. As we navigate advancements in machine learning, AI tools, Large Language Models and automated data collection, maintaining high standards is non-negotiable.
Data quality is key to effective research. By maintaining high standards, we protect the role of researchers in a time when AI tools like ChatGPT are widely used. It’s our job to demonstrate the value of human expertise, ensuring the insights we deliver are reliable, useful, and meaningful.