About the Role
You will be part of the company Research team, supporting the Middle East & Africa (MEA) Research and Thought Leadership agenda. Working alongside the MEA research leadership, the Research Associate Manager will help deliver the region's research strategy and strengthen the company's position as a trusted source of insight across industries in the region.
The ideal candidate should be a strong researcher with a keen interest in the MEA economic and technology landscape, capable of connecting macro trends (technological, economic, social, regulatory, and geopolitical) to actionable insights for clients. Strong quantitative and data-analytics capabilities are required, alongside fluent use of AI and Generative AI tools to enhance research workflows. Familiarity with GCC national programs and institutional sources (e.g., national vision plans, national AI authorities, and national clouds) is a strong advantage.
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Key Roles and Responsibilities
- Support the development of thought-provoking insights through quantitative and qualitative research methods, helping sustain a continuous flow of high-quality research and market-facing insights.
- Draw on traditional and innovative data sources, including GCC government, regional and global economic and technology sources, to explore key business questions in a logical, structured way.
- Analyze datasets and interpret results using statistical techniques and data-visualization tools; build and update models to produce client-ready outputs.
- Develop compelling research narratives and clear business storylines alongside research and industry leads.
- Craft high-quality outputs (slides, visualizations, and written summaries) tailored to senior client and internal audiences.
- Support business development by helping account teams apply our data products and thought leadership to engage clients and shape new opportunities.
- Leverage AI and Generative AI to enhance ways of working, surface novel insights, and deliver outputs in non-traditional ways.
Experience and Skills
- Strong understanding of the MEA economic, business, and technology landscape, as well as the region's national transformation programs and priorities.
- Ability to use various research techniques such as market and competitive analysis, policy analysis, company analysis, strategic frameworks, and interview-based research.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret, visualize, and synthesize complex data; comfort with statistical principles.
- Familiarity with AI and Generative AI tools and the ability to apply them responsibly in a research context.
- Storytelling ability paired with strong analytical thinking and the ability to write in a clear, concise, and compelling manner.
- Strong executive presentation skills, with proficiency in PowerPoint, Excel, and data visualization tools.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships locally.
- Strong professional qualities: client focus, integrity, resilience, and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Essential Qualifications
- A bachelor's degree, preferably in economics, business, political science, international relations, engineering, or a related field.
- A postgraduate degree (MBA, public policy, economics, or equivalent) is a plus.
- Work experience: 6+ years of business experience, preferably in consulting, think tanks, financial institutions, research environments, or a relevant industry, or demonstrated equivalent skill.
- Languages: Fluency in Arabic and English (written and spoken) is required.
Preferable Qualifications
- Experience within a consulting, research, or strategy environment.
- Knowledge of GCC national transformation programs and the MEA business landscape.
- Experience with AI/Generative AI tools and data visualization platforms.
- Exposure to thought leadership, market research, and industry analysis.
- Proficiency in Power BI, Tableau, or similar analytics tools.
Why Join Us?
- We offer a transparent, fast-paced career progression, with a focus on your strengths and continuous coaching from senior colleagues.
- You will benefit from working alongside company experts who are solving some of the biggest industry challenges with innovative thinking and pioneering tools.
- Flexible work arrangements and a range of benefits including competitive rewards.
- You will have access to state-of-the-art technology that will give you the opportunity to deepen your existing skills even as you help create the latest business trends.
- You will also have opportunities to make a difference to the communities in which we work and live.
