The analyst will be responsible for developing significant content and producing industry and/or functional analysis reports to support search engagements, special projects and new business initiatives. To accomplish this, the analyst will gather, synthesize, make recommendations and present information for prospective and ongoing client engagements utilizing internal, external, and contracted resources. Analysts play a major role in knowledge creation within the firm, including responsibility for research projects building Spencer Stuart’s knowledge of executive talent within industries and companies. In addition, the analyst may have opportunities to engage and contribute to intellectual capital pieces on behalf of their practice. Over time, Analysts are expected to develop in-depth knowledge of their area of focus; gaining this expertise includes understanding the implications of current news and issues, becoming familiar with executive leadership across a range of companies, and understanding market influences. Analysts typically spend two to three years with Spencer Stuart, and then go on to a top business school or an industry job of their choosing; select Analysts may stay with the firm and progress to an Associate role and beyond. Analysts develop deep understanding about leadership, expertise in their areas of practice focus and a sophisticated skill set in the areas of research, problem solving, project management and communication. They are mentored by leaders in the field within an apprenticeship model of learning. Key Relationships Reports to: Research Director Associates and Consultants (on a project basis) Other Key Relationships: Consultants, Associates, Senior Associates Executive Assistants Client Development Team Major Responsibilities Assist in the creation of content for qualifications packs for new business development initiatives. Develops a solid understanding of the potential client/client’s industry including specific information regarding the “value proposition” (competitive landscape, strengths, and weaknesses), stock performance, employee count, etc. Synthesize information accurately, so that it is easily incorporated into a readable, client-ready document. Maintain current awareness of news and issues associated with key client engagements and market opportunities and share that information and knowledge in a timely way with associates, consultants and knowledge management. Assist in high level name generation and organization chart creation. Contribute to the long list creation by leveraging internal and external databases to provide commentary on potential candidates. Participate in kick-off meetings with Associates and Consultants to assist in the development of the search strategy. Directly assist Associates with search-related tasks, such as the development of a search strategy and target list. Develop industry and/or functional expertise by maintaining an awareness of industry trends and “best in class” leaders/future leaders. CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION: KEY SELECTION CRITERIA Ideal Experience: An undergraduate degree. Experience using Microsoft’s Word, Excel and PowerPoint programs. Has completed research that includes a financial/statistical analysis of a business, industry, or market. Fluent in English (written & spoken); additional language skills will be an advantage. Critical Competencies: Project Management – Plans, manages and drives own efforts in support of new business development and search assignment support as measured by timely completion of project tasks and feedback from project team members. The successful candidate will do this while handling multiple projects with competing deadlines, working with individuals who have differing styles, and managing challenging expectations by: Providing accurate and timely research information about executives, organizations, markets or other relevant sectors. Taking ownership of the project by doing what is needed at all phases of the research process, anticipating next steps and not waiting to be told what to do. Regularly reassessing priorities to align resources where/when needed and proactively reprioritizing own workload to provide additional support to assignment team where/when needed. Being prepared, where necessary, to work longer hours and to be available out of working hours, committing to deadlines and communicating progress against them to the assignment team and/or client. Delivering on commitments on-time or notifying as early as possible if problems occur or deadlines will slip. Analytical Skills – Synthesizes research for business development initiatives, search assignments or intellectual capital initiatives and provides a succinct and accurate point of view as measured by quality and timeliness of contribution to assignment/project objectives. The successful candidate will do this while dealing with short timelines and limited information by: Listening and asking insightful questions. Leveraging knowledge of an industry/function/sector and appropriate resources to gather relevant information. Subjecting researched facts to extensive analysis and interpretation before drawing conclusions. Making inferential leaps in thinking to reach a solution despite incomplete or ambiguous information. Making decisions rapidly, despite the complexity of the issues or pressures involved. Using effective business writing skills to create succinct, client-ready analyses and documenting information in Firm databases. Professional Approach – Contributes to the efficiency and quality of teams in order to successfully meet project objectives as measured by Consultant, Associate and peer feedback while working with individuals who have differing styles by: Being authentic. Listening and asking questions to clarify understanding and demonstrate knowledge. Placing team goals ahead of individual goals. Considering the needs of colleagues and adapting own communication style accordingly. Setting expectations and clarifying tasks to avoid wasting time and resources. Offering to work outside areas of responsibility when needed. Raising issues early and finding solutions collaboratively. Remaining poised when under pressure or handling unexpected challenges. Proactively sharing information with those who would benefit while being discreet with confidential information.