Research Analyst

Edge Executive Search Group; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 650,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected South African professional institute is seeking a Research Analyst to conduct and publish high-quality research in the accountancy profession. The role involves producing original research and analysis focused on education, business advisory, assurance, and economic development. Ideal candidates will have a master's degree and over 5 years of research experience, with strong analytical and communication skills.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in research, preferably in education or a professional body.
• Strong background in curriculum development and policy research.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for academic, business, and policy audiences.

Responsibilities

• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research across education, accountancy, economics, and regulation.
• Produce at least two research articles per quarter and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
• Analyse economic and market trends, including SME performance, entrepreneurship, and regulatory impacts.

Skills

Qualitative analysis

Quantitative analysis

Communication skills

Curriculum development

Data analysis software

Education

Master's degree in a research-related field

Tools

Research tools

Data analysis software

Job description

Research Analyst

Location: Midrand
Type: Permanent

Turn insight into impact.
Drive research that shapes the profession and supports national economic growth.

About the Role

This role is dedicated to conducting robust research that informs policy, practice, and innovation in the accountancy profession and beyond. The Research Analyst will deliver high-quality outputs across education, business advisory, assurance, and economic development—helping to shape strategic direction for the institute and its members.

You will produce original research, peer-reviewed papers, and evidence-based recommendations, contributing to both the South African and global body of knowledge. This role requires strong analytical capability, academic rigour, and the ability to communicate complex insights in an accessible way.

Who the Client Is

This opportunity is with a respected South African professional institute that advances standards, education, and advocacy for the accountancy profession. The organisation partners with universities, regulators, and business leaders to support sustainable growth, strengthen SMEs, and ensure professional pathways remain credible and relevant.

What You’ll Do

• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research across education, accountancy, economics, and regulation.
• Produce at least two research articles per quarter and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
• Analyse economic and market trends, including SME performance, entrepreneurship, and regulatory impacts.
• Develop evidence-based recommendations to support policy, qualification frameworks, and curriculum updates.
• Collaborate on international research, including contributions to global publications.
• Use data and IT tools to track trends, manage virtual research sources, and deliver timely outputs.
• Update institutional platforms with research findings and insights.

What You Bring

• Master’s degree in a research-related field (research-based qualification required).
• 5+ years’ experience in research, preferably in education or a professional body.
• Strong background in curriculum development and policy research.
• Skilled in qualitative and quantitative analysis, with ability to produce empirical outputs.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for academic, business, and policy audiences.
• Proficiency with research tools, data analysis software, and IT systems.
• High integrity, strategic judgment, and adaptability to diverse projects.

What Success Looks Like

• High-quality, peer-reviewed research produced consistently each quarter.
• Influential publications shaping policy, professional practice, and industry debate.
• Data-driven insights adopted into curriculum design, qualification pathways, and policy frameworks.
• Recognised contributions to global research initiatives and sector thought leadership.
• Strong collaboration across executives, academia, regulators, and business stakeholders.
• Research outputs delivered on time, with measurable impact for the profession and wider economy.

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