Research Associate

Spencer Stuart; Hong Kong; On-site; HKD 500,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

Spencer Stuart is looking for Associates in Hong Kong to work on multiple client engagements. The ideal candidate will manage projects, complete detailed research, and assist in developing robust candidate profiles.

Successful candidates will possess a minimum of 5 years in executive search or consulting. Fluency in English and Cantonese is crucial, and applicants should have a Bachelor's degree or higher. This position emphasizes teamwork and strong organizational skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in executive search or strategy consulting.
• Experience with psychometric instruments is advantageous.
• International mindset with cross-border experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop search strategy and target list of companies.
• Assist in research and candidate qualification.
• Prepare client progress reports and meetings.

Skills

Project Management

Candidate Development

Market Knowledge

Fluent English

Fluent Cantonese

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree

Job description

Position Summary

The Associates are expected to work pro‑actively and efficiently on multiple client engagements through a combination of solid project management skills, proactive and quality search execution, ownership mentality, and strong, team‑oriented delivery to specific client needs. Each assignment is driven by a team, including at a minimum a Consultant, Associate, and Executive Assistant.

Key Relationships

• Reports to: Research Director, Greater China Consultants (on assignment/engagement basis)
• Key relationships include: Office Manager, Practice Leader/Practice Members, Consultants, Research Team, Executive Assistant, and cross‑team collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Participate in client kick‑off meetings and assist in developing the search strategy and target list of companies.
• Contribute to winning client pitches by providing benchmark candidate profiles and other background information.
• Assist in completing the HKEX board index, supporting research, data compilation, and validation of relevant board‑level information.
• Gather relevant industry and target company information, identify potential prospects and sources.
• Represent the client effectively in the marketplace and present a comprehensive universe of qualified candidates.
• Anticipate needs to drive the search to closure and provide additional information such as industry trends, market findings, and compensation data.
• Communicate effectively with the search team, keeping all parties abreast of search developments.
• Prepare organized information for client progress reports and meetings.
• Provide an informed perspective on prospects/candidates relative to the client’s selection criteria.
• Maintain up‑to‑date assignment, company, and candidate information, leveraging technology and the firm’s proprietary database.
• Stay aware of industry and functional changes, identifying and developing specialized expertise.
• Contribute to local, practice, or firm‑wide initiatives and share knowledge with broader distribution.
• Adhere to firm policies and standards for candidate validation, documentation, and assessment.

Candidate Profile – Ideal Experience

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a relevant executive search, leadership advisory, or strategy consulting environment.
• Domain or subject‑matter expertise in an industry or functional area (desired).
• Experience with psychometric instruments is highly advantageous.
• International mindset with experience working across borders.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken) and Cantonese (spoken); additional language skills a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferable.

Critical Capabilities

• Project Management: Plans, manages, and drives own efforts to identify and develop a slate of quality candidates while handling multiple projects, competing deadlines, and varying stakeholder styles.
• Candidate Development: Builds strong contact management lists, gathers relevant data from diverse sources, and articulates fit to specifications.
• Credibility and Influence: Communicates effectively, builds relationships with executive candidates, and portrays executive presence and professionalism.
• Market and Candidate Knowledge: Gathers, updates, and shares market intelligence, identifies executive movements, and maintains real‑time candidate pool data.

Personal Characteristics

• High curiosity and a drive to learn continuously.
• Strong adaptability to a variety of client and colleague styles.
• Excellent organization and prioritization abilities.
• Discretion and sensitivity when handling confidential information.
• Endurance and ability to manage multiple conflicting priorities.
• Sound judgment and ability to work autonomously.
• Proactive problem prevention and proactive initiative.

EEO and Accessibility

Spencer Stuart is an Equal Employment Opportunity / affirmative action employer and provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities. Applicants to and employees are protected under Federal law from discrimination. For additional information on disability accommodations, contact: [e-mail].