Researcher

About the position

Opportunity

Our client is looking for a Researcher to join their global Analysis and Research Center, based in their Johannesburg office. The successful candidate will be part of the Research team who support fundamental research activities for their client facing teams as part of a global resource as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Devise, conduct and present high quality, thorough and thoughtful research using a wide range of tools including FactSet, Factiva, LSEG, Mergermarket and other specialist sources
• Provide concise and compelling outputs, succinctly drawing out and articulating key messages and themes
• Promote and make use of internal AI tools for research outputs
• Design and explain research methodologies to address complex client and business challenges
• Competitive analyses and benchmarking of (prospective) clients and peer groups
• Qualitative and quantitative analysis of traditional and social media
• Review and summarise takeaways from complex, technical documents such as analyst reports, regulatory filings and legal complaints
• Query research databases to extract relevant information into reports and actionable datasets
• Data analysis, including charting and other visualisations
• Track and analyse critical issues and trends across sector and practice areas; proactively scan and analyse sector news and key developments
• Advise colleagues and requesters on research resources and tool availability, usage, copyright issues and source attribution
• Support new business efforts by helping team members prepare for pitches and proposals
• When required, work with teams to understand content needs and provide guidance on what is available in the market and the process for any new content requests
• Liaise with vendors to ensure they work with the L&D team to deliver relevant training sessions. Provide occasional (post training) ad-hoc product run throughs as needed with individuals
• Demonstrate strong curiosity and awareness of current and relevant global issues and horizon trends (incl. how these may impact clients), sharing appropriately. Works closely with global colleagues to bring new ideas and approach
• Work / build relationships with client teams across the firm as appropriate, anticipating and understanding requester needs, maximising efficiencies and adding value wherever possible

Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies

• Ideally 1+ years working in a research role, ideally in a fast-paced, confidential, client-driven professional services environment
• Interest in media, financial markets, business critical issues, public relations and corporate communications
• Strong understanding of data, including corporate, financial and macro-economic indicators, concepts and key terminology
• Experience analysing / researching a company and its financials would be beneficial
• Strong research skills and demonstrated experience formulating, conducting and completing research projects in a professional setting
• Strong understanding of research resources and tools, with experience working with AI platforms / tools beneficial
• Strong writing and verbal communication skills with an ability to produce high quality, thoughtful, accurate and well-structured outputs in a variety of formats
• Extremely well-organized with a keen attention to detail and an intellectually rigorous, client-service attitude
• Ability to multitask, prioritize and work under tight deadlines
• Resilient and flexible; willing to accommodate ambiguity and adapt to changing circumstances
• Ability to maintain and promote a respectful and inclusive work environment
• Collaborative and dynamic self-starter with a strong work ethic
• Resourceful and creative problem-solver
• Actively seeks out learning and growth opportunities

Not required, but a plus

• International work experience or knowledge
• Additional language of French
• Communications industry knowledge / business acumen

Desired Skills:

• Research And Development
• AI tool usage
• Competitive analysis
• Benchmarking
• Qualitative analysis
• Quantitative analysis
• Data analysis

Desired Work Experience:

• 1 to 2 years

Desired Qualification Level:

• Degree

About The Employer:

Our client us is a global strategic advisor that provides expert advice to their clients on a range of business-critical issues. With 27 offices in 19 countries they are well positioned to advise leading companies on how to operate successfully across the areas of finance, politics and society at large.