Location London
Job-type Permanent
Salary
Reference ACRE-12741

Our client is a global impact investing platform with over $5 billion in assets under management, backing purpose-driven companies that tackle the world's biggest challenges. The firm invests in scalable, tech-driven business models across Europe, the US, Latin America, India, and Africa, and operates out of six global offices.

The organisation is seeking a highly analytical and strategic Senior Research Associate to join its Strategy Team. This role is crucial in delivering in-depth research and analysis to support the firm's strategic initiatives, such as market analysis, competitive intelligence, and portfolio management strategy. The ideal candidate will collaborate closely with both the Strategy and Investment teams to shape and refine the strategic direction of the fund and its portfolio companies.

Key Responsibilities:


Strategic Market Research:

Conduct comprehensive research on market trends, industry dynamics, and competitive landscapes to support the firm's strategic planning and decision-making. This includes contributing to a flagship report, providing in-depth analysis on key trends, investment opportunities, and strategic insights relevant to the firm and its stakeholders.

Identify emerging trends and disruptive technologies that may impact the fund's investment thesis and portfolio companies.

Competitive Analysis:

  • Analyse competitors, market positioning, and strategic moves within relevant industries.

  • Track and report on competitor performance, including financial metrics and strategic initiatives.

Portfolio Strategy Support:

  • Collaborate with the investment and portfolio management teams to develop strategic plans for portfolio companies, including market entry strategies, growth opportunities, and operational improvements.

  • Provide data-driven insights to support value creation initiatives and long-term strategic planning.

  • Track deals within relevant sectors, including analytics on who and what is raising capital, to inform the firm's strategic positioning and investment decisions.

Knowledge Management and Data Handling:

  • Manage and organise knowledge resources, including paid subscriptions to research databases and industry reports. Ensure the structured collection and synthesis of data for easy access and utilisation by the team.

  • Handle the inflow of data, creating a structured cross-section that integrates various information streams, facilitating informed decision-making and strategic planning.

Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects:

  • Support senior management in exploring new business opportunities, including market expansion, new product development, and partnerships.

  • Participate in special projects, such as white papers, industry deep dives, and strategic presentations for internal and external stakeholders.

External Speaker Engagement:

  • Source and coordinate external speakers for team talks or brown bag lunches on key cross-cutting topics relevant to the firm's interests and strategic focus.

  • Organise and facilitate these events, ensuring they provide valuable insights and foster team learning and development.

Data Management and Reporting:

  • Maintain and analyse strategic data sets, including market research databases, competitive intelligence, and internal performance metrics.

  • Prepare detailed reports, presentations, and briefings for the Strategy Team and senior management.

Experience Sought

  • 5+ years of professional experience in strategy consulting, equity research, or a related field.

  • Strong analytical skills, with the ability to synthesise complex information into actionable insights.

  • Proficiency in strategic analysis, including SWOT analysis, market sizing, and competitor benchmarking.

  • Excellent research and data analysis capabilities, with a strong attention to detail and accuracy.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present strategic concepts clearly and compellingly.

  • Fluent in English; advanced IT skills in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word); experience with data visualisation tools is a plus.

  • Strategic thinker with a proactive and resourceful approach.

  • Strong work ethic and professional integrity.

  • Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

  • Collaborative team player with a willingness to engage across different functions.

If this role is of interest, please apply directly or contact Gemma Finegold at gemma.finegold@acre.com.