Research​/Development Associate, Market Research

September Search Partners (SSP) is a boutique retained executive search and talent advisory firm focused on C‑Suite to VP level talent in the Real Assets industry. We partner with leading real estate, infrastructure, hospitality, and energy companies to identify and recruit transformative talent. Clients range from the largest and best‑recognized groups in the industry to the early‑stage start‑ups, and those in between.

We created SSP to serve clients from a foundation of shared values—teamwork, dedication, empathy, respect, and excellence. These values aren’t abstract; they guide how we work every day. In practice, we harness the power of “and” rather than “or”:

• Experience and innovation.
• Patience and persistence.
• Thoughtfulness and efficiency.
• Professionalism and fun.

As part of the firm’s success and continued growth, we are seeking an Associate to join our team. This individual will play an integral role in executing searches, supporting client engagements, conducting market research, and contributing to the evolution of the firm.

This is an opportunity to work directly with senior team members, gain exposure to industry leaders, and take on meaningful responsibility from day one.

• Conduct market mapping, talent research, and candidate identification across active searches
• Build candidate pipelines and develop long lists utilizing internal databases, proprietary research, and external sources
• Prepare and maintain search materials, including job descriptions, candidate profiles, interview trackers, compensation analyses, and progress reports
• Support candidate outreach and engagement
• Manage search workflows, timelines, and deliverables to ensure assignments remain on track
• Prepare agendas, meeting materials, and search updates for internal and client meetings
• Maintain accurate data within CRM and search management systems
• Coordinate effectively across the team and contribute wherever needed

• Develop market maps, talent intelligence, and industry research for client pitches and searches
• Support business development through research, presentations, and client‑facing materials
• Track industry trends and executive movements across target markets
• Contribute to thought leadership, market insights, and firm content
• Leverage technology and AI to enhance research, project management, search execution, and internal operations
• Evaluate and implement tools that improve efficiency and scalability
• Analyze search and business data to identify trends and opportunities
• Drive continuous improvement across processes and client delivery

• 1–3 years of experience in executive search, investment banking, management consulting, or a related field
• Strong research, analytical, and project management skills
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills
• Ability to synthesize complex information and communicate clearly
• Exceptional attention to detail and follow‑through
• Intellectual curiosity and a demonstrated ability to learn quickly
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with professionalism and sound judgment
• Comfort adopting and leveraging new technologies, including AI tools
• Experience in real estate and/or infrastructure a plus

We are looking for someone who:

• Is a consummate team player—collaborates effectively, contributes beyond defined responsibilities, and fosters a supportive environment
• Takes ownership and communicates proactively
• Learns quickly and responds well to feedback
• Anticipates needs and follows through
• Produces thoughtful, high‑quality, client‑ready work with minimal oversight
• Effectively manages multiple work streams
• Continuously seeks ways to improve the team, process, and client experience

This role will be based in New York and require candidates to be in office a minimum of 4 days a week.

The anticipated base salary range for this position is $75,000–$95,000, depending on experience and qualifications. Associates are also eligible for an annual performance‑based bonus.

In addition, employees are eligible to participate in a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan, commuter benefits, and other wellness and financial benefits.

To apply for the role, please email