Research Analyst

About the role We are looking for a detail-oriented, highly analytical, and intellectually curious Research Analyst to join our growing research and strategy team. In this role, you will initially work exclusively on one of our agency's flagship accounts: Microsoft. You'll have the opportunity to dive deep into one of the world's most influential technology brands, helping the team turn research, data, and market intelligence into stronger strategic direction. As our business and your career evolve, you could expand your scope to other exciting clients across our portfolio. This role is designed for a data-driven thinker who loves digging into complex datasets and research, taking genuine pride in the quality, accuracy, and rigour of their work. We're looking for someone who is organised, proactive, and eager to translate raw information into powerful, strategic narratives. Opportunity Direct mentorship: You will work in a tight-knit, highly collaborative team, learning directly from a Senior Strategist, Strategy Lead, and Head of International Strategy. Real ownership & high impact: You will have a voice in the room and own well-defined pieces of research and analysis, from analysing large consumer data sets to identifying the cultural shifts that inform our client's next big campaign. Clear career progression: In a small, agile team, your impact is highly visible. We are committed to nurturing junior talent and providing a clear path for you to deepen your research capability, broaden your strategic contribution, and step into greater responsibility as the team and client account expand. Key responsibilities Data-driven insights & research rigour Quantitative analysis: Support the team in executing rigorous research processes, including drafting surveys, analysing quantitative audience segmentation studies, and synthesising complex data sets. Performance analysis: Review past campaign and business performance data to identify trends, measure effectiveness, and uncover optimisation opportunities. Social listening & auditing: Leverage social listening tools to monitor conversations, identify audience pain points, and extract clear, actionable insights. Qualitative support: Assist in preparing for and analysing qualitative research, such as focus groups and depth interviews. Competitive & cultural intelligence Competitor intelligence: Conduct regular competitor analysis across communications, campaigns, social presence, and market positioning. Trend spotting: Surface emerging narratives and flag relevant cultural, technological, or category moments in a timely and structured way. Whitespace identification: Spot gaps in the market and find untapped opportunities where our client can stand out. Strategic storytelling & project support Decks & deliverables: Translate raw research, data, and social listening findings into clear, highly visual, and digestible summaries, insight decks, and trend reports that support strategic decision-making. Knowledge management: Maintain organised and accessible documentation, research libraries, and data sources for the wider team. Meeting prep: Support the team in preparing high-quality materials for strategy presentations, workshops, and client briefings. Skills & experience Essential Data literacy & analytical rigour: Strong analytical skills with a genuine comfort working with numbers. Insight generation: Ability to go beyond simple desk research to find the "so what?" in data, translating raw metrics into clear strategic recommendations. Strong written and verbal English fluency. Attention to detail: An uncompromising eye for detail, spotting inconsistencies in data and presenting polished, error‐free work. Proactivity & organisation: Comfort managing multiple tasks simultaneously, prioritising effectively, and taking initiative to keep projects moving forward. Desirable Research experience: Familiarity with research methodologies (e.g., drafting surveys, analysing quantitative studies, using social listening platforms). Industry context: A background or strong interest in strategy, communications, media, marketing, or the technology industry. Agency exposure: Experience working within or alongside a creative, media, or communications agency environment. Cultural curiosity: A natural curiosity about human behaviour, brands, and how culture influences consumer decision-making. Benefits & culture Hybrid approach: Teams work in the office an average of four days a week, with flexibility available upon discussion. Inclusive culture: We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers. #J-18808-Ljbffr