Junior Research Associate

Phelps; Toronto; Hybrid; CAD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading advisory firm in Toronto is seeking a Junior Research Associate to support executive search projects. This role involves learning research techniques, candidate outreach, and assisting with projects in a collaborative environment. The ideal candidate has strong writing and communication skills, is interested in leadership, and is eager to grow professionally. The position offers mentorship and a hybrid work model requiring weekly office attendance.

Benefits

Mentorship & Training

Career Growth

Collaborative Team Culture

National Impact

Qualifications

• Previous experience in research or recruitment is preferred.
• Strong interest in leadership and organizational dynamics.
• Ability to document information accurately.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Support the full lifecycle of executive searches.
• Conduct candidate outreach and communications.
• Participate in intake meetings to understand needs.
• Assist with interview coordination and candidate screening.
• Maintain and update the search database.

Skills

Research techniques

Candidate outreach

Excellent writing skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Organization

Adaptability

Proactive mindset

Tools

Crelate

Job description

Junior Research Associate

Location: Toronto, ON (Hybrid – Weekly In-Office Presence Required)

Discover leaders. Build insight. Shape futures.

Phelps is a leading Canadian executive search and leadership advisory firm with nearly 40 years of experience placing transformative leaders across public, non-profit, and private sectors. Known for our bespoke approach and unwavering commitment to equity, inclusion, and excellence, we help organizations find and shape leadership that makes a lasting impact.

As we continue to grow, we are looking for a curious and detail-oriented Junior Research Associate to join our Toronto-based team. This is an ideal role for someone early in their career who is passionate about people, insights, and professional growth—and eager to learn the foundations of executive search and research excellence.

About the Role

As a Junior Research Associate, you’ll support the full lifecycle of our executive searches—from talent mapping and outreach to assessment and placement—alongside an experienced team of Research Associates and Search Consultants. You will:

• Learn and apply research techniques to identify and map diverse talent in Canada across industries and leadership levels
• Support the search process through candidate outreach, communications, scheduling, and engagement
• Participate in intake meetings and consultations to understand client organizations, culture, and leadership needs
• Help write and tailor outreach emails, referral notes, and other communications
• Assist with candidate screening, interview coordination, and pre-assessment alignment checks
• Help maintain and update our search database (Crelate) with relevant insights, connections, and project progress
• Ensure a positive and professional candidate experience throughout the recruitment journey
• Work with senior team members to build and maintain talent pipelines and succession plans for future searches
• Contribute to DEI and inclusive hiring efforts through thoughtful research and outreach practices
• Take part in project management tasks including progress tracking, research reporting, and briefing documentation

What We’re Looking For

• Previous experience in research or recruitment (internships and co-op experience welcome)
• Strong interest in leadership, people, and understanding what makes organizations thrive
• Excellent writing, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in organizing and documenting information with accuracy and care
• Comfort working independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, multi-project environment
• Curiosity, adaptability, and a proactive mindset—open to feedback and eager to learn

Why Join Phelps

• Mentorship & Training: Learn directly from senior Research Associates and Partners who are invested in your success
• Career Growth: Develop foundational skills in executive search, talent intelligence, and leadership assessment
• Meaningful Work: Help organizations across Canada make leadership decisions that drive change
• Team Culture: Join a collaborative, mission-driven, and inclusive firm where your insights are valued
• National Impact: Contribute to high-profile searches across private and public sectors.

This is a hybrid role based in Toronto. Weekly attendance at our Downtown Toronto office is required.