Research Analyst

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The Opportunity

At Acumen (part of the Sannam S4 Group), we are re-engineering what a consulting organisation can be. We own our client’s challenges as if they were our own, delivering practical solutions crafted intelligently, passionately, and relentlessly.

We are a team that values innovation, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity. As part of our Higher Education practice, you will play a critical role in shaping insights and strategies for universities and education stakeholders, particularly in the Transnational Education (TNE) space. Whether your experience is from education, corporate finance, or strategy, you will find opportunities to apply your skills to make an immediate impact.

Job Purpose

The Research Analyst will provide research, analysis, and insights to support Acumen’s higher education and TNE projects. The role requires strong analytical ability, sector awareness, and an interest in higher education partnerships and policy. You will work closely with senior team members to track trends, monitor the evolving education landscape, and deliver actionable recommendations for clients.

The candidate will work on a full-time basis and will have to demonstrate initiative. These duties are a guide to the type of work that the role holder will initially be required to undertake but may vary depending on the successful candidate’s particular skills and experience.

Main Responsibilities

Desk Research

• Track TNE models, trends, and opportunities in India.
• Map foreign campuses, TNE partnerships, and collaborations in India.
• Monitor competitor activities, institutional partnerships, and emerging opportunities.
• Analyse comprehensive data on Indian universities, executive education, and related offerings.
• Conduct country- or industry-specific research on landscape, gaps, trends, and growth potential.

Regulatory

• Track key policy and regulatory announcements in India and assess implications for higher education and TNE.

Mobility

• Collect and interpret data on student mobility, discipline-level demand, tuition fees, scholarships, and competitive positioning of institutions.

Analysis & Deliverables

• Prepare research reports, briefing notes, and presentations for senior leadership and stakeholders.
• Support proposal development, market entry strategies, and stakeholder engagement.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external experts to ensure research is accurate, relevant, and timely.

Information and reporting

• Maintain accurate datasets and research trackers.
• Compile, analyse, and present findings in a structured manner.
• Share insights and recommendations with stakeholders through reports and presentations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred in economics, business, policy, or related fields.
• Strong academic background with demonstrated research and analytical skills.

Experience

• 2–3 years of experience in a research analyst role.
• Experience in education, corporate finance, corporate strategy, or related services industries.
• Exposure to market research, policy research, or the education sector/EdTech is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

• Strong interest in domestic and international higher education, partnerships, and policy.
• Ability to conduct both quantitative and qualitative research, including survey design and primary research.
• Strong data analysis skills with ability to synthesise information into clear insights.
• Proficiency in MS Excel, PowerPoint, and data visualisation tools.
• Familiarity with government policy documents, higher education rankings, and market intelligence sources.
• Ability to engage with senior stakeholders for data collection and insights.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to translate data into actionable recommendations.