Director of Research

CriticalPoint
El Segundo, CA

Director of Research


Job Summary:

The Director of Research will lead the firm’s research creation, analysis, and communication of insights across various industries. This role requires a strategic leader who can drive the development of cutting-edge research and analysis that informs thematic narratives, investment theses and targets for clients and supports the firm’s overall objectives. The Director of Research will assist in developing a best-in-class research product, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation.


Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy:

  • Build, lead and manage the research efforts to ensure high-quality, data-driven, and actionable insights are delivered consistently
  • Develop and implement the firm’s research strategy, aligning with business goals and client opportunities
  • Work closely with senior leadership to determine, plan and execute business development opportunities


Research & Analysis:

  • Oversee and evaluate client-specific and company-level research to identify opportunities and trends
  • Produce well written reports
  • Leverage a suite of resources and databases (e.g. Frost & Sullivan, Forrester, Gartner, IBISWorld)


Collaboration & Communication:

  • Act as the primary liaison between the research team and key stakeholders, including clients, bankers and members of the internal team
  • Present complex research findings in a clear and concise manner to both technical and non-technical audiences
  • Collaborate with other departments (e.g. execute, source, private capital, valuations) to ensure research is aligned with broader organizational goals


Innovation & Continuous Improvement:

  • Stay updated with the latest market trends, economic developments and technology
  • Encourage a culture of continuous improvement and foster innovative thinking within the research team.


Client Engagement (if applicable):

  • Engage with clients to present key research findings, insights, and recommendations, showcasing the firm’s expertise in research
  • Build and maintain strong relationships internally


Required Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree required


Experience:

  • Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in financial and/or market research
  • Strong expertise in financial markets, macroeconomic analysis, asset-level assessment and valuation
  • Extensive experience in creating and presenting actionable research insights to senior executives and clients


Skills & Competencies:

  • Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills
  • Ability to leverage AI tools and build systems to enhance automation and scalability
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication
  • Ability to think strategically, with a focus on long-term goals and business growth
  • Entrepreneurial mindset
  • Demonstrated history of professionalism, accountability, resourcefulness and integrity

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