Decision Analytics Consultant- Forecasting

Zs Associates; New York (NY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive total rewards package

Skills-building programs

Career progression pathways

Collaborative culture

Job summary

ZS Associates seeks a Forecasting Decision Analytics Consultant in New York City. This role requires strong analytical skills to develop forecasting solutions and engage directly with clients. Candidates should hold an MBA or relevant PhD and have proven experience in commercial demand forecasting and AI/ML.

Responsibilities include leading analytics projects, managing cross-functional teams, and presenting findings to clients. ZS offers a comprehensive rewards package supporting health, financial future, and professional development.

Qualifications

• Experience in developing forecasting solutions and advanced modeling techniques.
• Proven ability to translate complex business problems into actionable insights.
• Strong expertise in managing global, cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute forecasting and decision analytics projects.
• Develop and deploy advanced forecasting models and AI/ML-driven solutions.
• Engage directly with clients and senior stakeholders.

Skills

Strong analytical capabilities

Commercial demand forecast modeling

AI/ML and quantitative analysis

Data synthesis and storytelling skills

Client engagement

Education

MBA or PhD in a relevant discipline

6-8 years relevant work experience

Tools

R

SAS

Tableau

VBA

Job description

We are seeking a Forecasting Decision Analytics Consultant with strong analytical capabilities, client presence, and experience developing forecasting solutions. This role combines forecast modeling, AI/advanced analytics, and direct client engagement, with opportunities to lead global teams and influence high-impact business decisions.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and execute forecasting and decision analytics projects, including commercial demand forecasting and broader strategic use cases
• Develop and deploy advanced forecasting models (epidemiology-based, patient-based, trend-based) and AI/ML-driven solutions
• Translate complex, ambiguous business problems into structured analytical frameworks and actionable insights
• Synthesize diverse data sources (market, patient, epidemiology, clinical, and secondary research) to inform forecasting assumptions and recommendations
• Engage directly with clients and senior stakeholders, serving as a trusted advisor with strong in-room presence
• Manage and mentor global, cross-functional teams (including offshore teams and business analysts), ensuring high-quality delivery across workstreams
• Lead end-to-end project execution, from scoping through model build, validation, and executive-level presentation
• Build and present executive-ready deliverables, including forecasting models, scenario analyses, and strategic insights decks
• Apply AI-led thinking and innovative approaches to improve forecasting accuracy and decision‑making
• Maintain expertise in pharmaceutical markets, therapeutic areas, and global market dynamics (US, EU, Japan, emerging markets)

What You’ll Bring

• MBA with a bachelor's (and often graduate) degree in a quantitative, analytical discipline, such as Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, Management Science, Data Science, Statistics, Econometrics, or Engineering. Alternately, candidates may possess a PhD in marketing, economics, decision sciences or related field with a business application. In lieu of an MBA or PhD, 6-8 years of relevant work experience may substitute.
• Up to 3 years of post-MBA relevant work experience, and 3-5 years of pre-MBA relevant work experience, with evidence of strong analytic work (including use of advanced modeling techniques and tools such as R, SAS, Tableau, or VBA)
• Strong expertise in commercial demand forecast modeling, AI/ML, or quantitative analysis
• Proven ability to solve complex, ambiguous business problems
• Experience working directly with clients and senior stakeholders
• Track record of collaborating with or managing global, cross‑functional teams
• Strong data synthesis, communication, and storytelling skills
• Fluency in English
• Client‑first mentality
• Intense work ethic
• Collaborative spirit and problem‑solving approach

Travel

Travel is a requirement at ZS for client‑facing ZSers; business needs of your project and client are the priority. While some projects may be local, all client‑facing ZSers should be prepared to travel as needed.

Perks & Benefits

Comprehensive total rewards package that supports health and well‑being, financial future, time off, and professional development. Includes skills‑building programs, career progression pathways, and a collaborative culture.

ZS is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment and advancement opportunities without regard to any class protected by applicable law.