Research Director, Software Channels - north york

About the Role & Team

The Research Director for Software Channels & Ecosystems is a senior role covering channels and ecosystems specific to software-centric channels and ecosystems, as well as all the external factors that impact software and services opportunities for technology vendors and their partner ecosystems.

This role sits within the IDC Worldwide Channels & Ecosystems team and is a key contributor to the following elements of the business: research agenda and direction, custom research engagements, client engagement and inquiries, program and business growth, and strategy and alignment to IDC goals.

The Research Director will be responsible for the program health of the Software Channels research program, which will include driving a forward‑looking research agenda and writing and publishing research on schedule. They will also be responsible for client engagement, maintaining a regular cadence with channels‑focused client executives, and managing all inquiries specific to research and industry trends. The role will participate in cross‑group research and custom research opportunities and will often be the lead contributor.

Additionally, the role will deliver two in‑person Leadership Councils for their audience per year, presenting the latest research and trends and addressing client opportunities and challenges in a council format.

This role is multi‑faceted and involves a number of required skills, as well as working with a range of clients and roles across the technology ecosystem who are often at different stages of evolution and always have a very specific context. This combination makes for some structure but also interesting variability of topics and engagements.

• Research and analytical skills
• Writing from long form to short form
• Strategic insight (ability to navigate through complex challenges)
• Channels knowledge and experience
• Business development skills
• Presentation skills (build and present to audiences)

• Lead and manage the Software Channels Research program, delivering a compelling and forward‑looking research agenda
• Manage program health, research agenda, client engagement, inquiries, client renewals, and prospecting
• Deliver two Leadership Councils per year
• Develop and deliver custom research specific to clients and in support of wider IDC initiatives
• Participate in and lean into wider IDC leadership initiatives
• Be a team player within the channels team, but also the wider research domain team and IDC team

• Degree or equivalent in a business or technology‑related subject
• Technology or market research experience with proven delivery
• Significant channels and ecosystems knowledge and experience
• Proven leadership skills and executive engagement experience
• Writing, presentation, and technology skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Copilot/ChatGPT, etc.) to support research deliverables
• Personal attributes: adaptability, team player, proven leadership qualities (direct and virtual), problem solver, strategic vision, empathy, and customer focus
• Flexible hybrid work model with travel required to support client/industry events and custom/presentation deliverables

At IDC, your work helps shape how the world understands technology and where it goes next. You collaborate with curious, high‑caliber colleagues who value rigor, integrity, and shared success. As the premier global provider of trusted technology intelligence, IDC equips business and technology leaders with the evidence they need to make confident decisions. Our insights inform strategy, investment, and innovation across industries and regions.

Recognized by IIAR as Analyst Firm of the Year for five consecutive years, IDC sets the standard for credibility and impact. With more than 1,000 analysts worldwide and a truly global perspective, we combine deep expertise with practical relevance. Here, your ideas matter, your voice is heard, and your contributions provide the insights leaders rely on every day. It is meaningful work, backed by a culture that supports growth, collaboration, and long‑term career development with a globally respected brand.

• 15 vacation days per…