Research Assistant, fDi Markets at Financial Times · Belfast

About Us
The Financial Times is one of the world’s leading news organisations, globally recognised for its authority, integrity and accuracy, with a mission to deliver quality information and services worldwide.
At the FT, curiosity thrives and ambitious thinking is rewarded. Here, you’re given the chance to reach millions, create work that matters and deliver impartial journalism in a polarised world.
In our warm, collaborative culture, you’ll connect with a diverse community of experts who support your growth, career aspirations and wellbeing. Your future at the FT will be filled with opportunities that challenge and inspire you. With no fixed path, you’ll discover new skills and forge a career that can take you anywhere.
Build a newsworthy career at the FT.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
We believe in the power of unique perspectives and want all voices in our organisation to be heard, respected and valued. A supportive workplace is one where employees feel they can be themselves and operate to their full potential. We are committed to removing barriers for everyone, with a focus on addressing those faced by underrepresented groups.
The Role
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.
Key Responsibilities
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.
Required Skills and Experience
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.
Desirable
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 cross-border business activity.
Previous experience in desk-based research, database management or an online information environment.
Analytical and report-writing skills.
What’s in it for You?
Our benefits vary by location but we are committed to providing best-in-class perks across all our offices. These include generous annual leave, medical cover, inclusive parental leave packages, subsidised gym memberships and opportunities to give back to the community. Full details of our benefits are available here.
We’ve embraced a 50% hybrid working model (averaging two to three days onsite) that fosters trust and remote adaptability while encouraging in-person camaraderie and peer learning. Additionally, we are open to accommodating specific flexible working pattern requests for all roles where feasible.
Accessibility
We are a Disability Confident employer and Valuable 500 signatory.
Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments or personalisation as part of the application process or to enable you to attend an interview. If you would like to discuss your requirements or have any questions, email talent@ft.com and a member of our team will be happy to help.
Further Information
At the FT, we embrace innovation and the use of technology and appreciate that individuals may use AI tools as part of their job application process. Whilst we are happy for you to use AI to assist with your application, it is essential that all information provided is authentic and accurately represents your skills, experience, and qualifications.
Candidates should be aware that the use of AI throughout the application process may be monitored to ensure a fair and transparent hiring process for all.
Please beware of fraudulent job postings and offers claiming to be from the Financial Times. All legitimate opportunities will direct you to apply through the official Financial Times careers site, and the FT will never ask for financial information, payments, or referrals to third parties during the hiring process. If you have any concerns about the legitimacy of a job posting or suspect any scam activity, please contact talent@ft.com.
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