Research Assistant, fDi Markets

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FT Locations is a specialist division of the Financial Times, providing industry‑leading insights into globalisation through a portfolio of products and services. Its work helps companies and economic development organisations make informed decisions about foreign direct investment.

fDi Markets is a leading cross‑border investment database and investor‑tracking tool used by governments and corporations around the world. It is also a source of foreign direct investment project data for organisations including UN Trade and Development and the Economist Intelligence Unit.

As a Research Assistant, you will join the FT Locations team and conduct detailed desk‑based research into foreign direct investment activity across assigned regions. You will identify companies undertaking investment projects, verify relevant information and record accurate project data in the fDi Markets database.

This role would suit someone who is curious about international business and economic globalisation, enjoys working with data and online sources, and can complete detailed research accurately and efficiently.

• Research publicly available sources to identify new inward investment projects.
• Conduct further web‑based research to verify projects and gather additional information.
• Enter new investment projects into the fDi Markets database accurately and consistently.
• Review existing records and update missing or outdated project information.
• Research project developments, including relocations, closures, downsizing, expansions and co‑locations.
• Help develop and maintain reliable research sources.
• Identify global foreign direct investment trends and contribute to an internal trend tracker used by fDi Intelligence.
• Identify potential investment leads.
• Conduct ad hoc research and production tasks.
• Provide data and research support to the sales team, including support aligned with geographical responsibilities.
• Follow agreed research methodologies and quality standards to maintain the accuracy and integrity of the database.

• A qualification at A-level or equivalent, ideally including a business, economics or research‑related subject.
• Strong desk‑based and online research skills, with the ability to assess information from multiple sources.
• A solid understanding of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to producing accurate work.
• The ability to work independently, use initiative and take ownership of assigned research.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to plan, prioritise and handle competing tasks.
• A collaborative and adaptable approach, with a positive attitude to working as part of a team.
• A degree at 2:1 level or above in a business, economics, research‑related or comparable subject area.
• Knowledge of one or more European or international languages.
• An understanding of economic globalisation, foreign direct investment or…