Research managers and administrators (RMA) play a vital role in supporting the research mandate of Canadian higher education institutions (universities, colleges, and hospital research) by aiding researchers to successfully obtain funding, comply with granting agency policies, and to manage collaboration. However, the role is not well understood due to broad scope, and RMA are not aware of career options, or skills required for career progression. To better understand the profession, and the skills required to perform responsibilities, the Canadian Association of Research Administrators Career Path Task Force conducted a sequential mixed methods study. The study included an environmental scan of job postings (n=120), an online survey (n=138) and interviews (n=9) to assess qualifications, skills, remuneration rates, duties, and professional development needs of RMA. Findings confirmed the broad scope (e.g., grant writing and management, financial oversight, research contracts, and ethics compliance.) Entry into the field has shifted, often requiring graduate degrees, making the profession appealing to PhD's seeking better work-life balance. Critical thinking, project management, exemplary communications, attention to detail, best practice in equity, diversity, and inclusion were skills identified as future focus for professional development. Mentorship was identified as critical to career progression, and fair remuneration and benefits facilitated retention.