Research analysts are skilled in identifying where companies want to be and how best to achieve that goal. They therefore have an in-depth knowledge of how businesses work and are responsible for collecting and interpreting data in order to construct reports and make recommendations.
Most analysts will have at least a Bachelors degree in a science, mathematics or business-related subject. They will also have a number of years of experience, strong critical and analytical skills and excellent communication skills, both written and oral. The research analyst will often be responsible for presenting their findings, interpretations and recommendations directly to the client.
Many analysts concentrate on the financial side of a business, looking at financial data and forecasting future earnings. They are often key in communicating with investors and need to be up-to-date on relevant regulatory policy, competition and business trends. Pay packets vary, but an average salary works out at around C
$86,000 per year, rising with experience.