EMEA Center of Excellence Research Analyst

The Center of Excellence (CoE) is a program designed to provide recent college graduates with a comprehensive introduction to the executive search and global leadership advisory industry. The program offers development experience in three crucial areas : Relationship Building and Partnership, Industry / Capability Knowledge, and Communication Presence and Market Facing Potential. With an initial potential duration of 18-24 months, depending on performance and internal opportunities, participants will gain practical skills through on-the-job training while working on real-world projects. The program provides opportunities to engage with top clients and candidates, expanding networks and exposure. Peer and senior mentorship will support participants throughout their journey. The CoE encourages exploration of different industries and sectors; after the initial induction, participants will 'major' in an industry / capability based on business needs and personal talents. Additionally, training programs will equip participants with essential tools and knowledge to excel at RRA.

The CoE Research Analyst is a key member of the global research team, supporting European senior researchers and consultants throughout the search process and beyond. The Analyst will report to the CoE Lead and be based in Barcelona, Spain.

Key responsibilities include :

• Managing Search Pipeline & Process
• Producing comprehensive reports detailing target companies, market sources, and candidates.
• Identifying and developing diverse, high-quality candidate slates using online and proprietary database search engines.
• Identifying potential candidates based on job specifications and resumes, and sourcing appropriately.
• Collaborating with administrative support to create client status reports.
• Developing Insights
• Growing industry-specific and geographic market knowledge.
• Conducting background research and generating insights for client pitches and presentations.
• Managing research processes effectively and maintaining organization skills.
• Building and maintaining the RRA database by tracking individuals in target markets / sectors / practices.
• Communication and Team Orientation
• Sharing ideas and best practices with team members across offices.
• Presents information clearly for reports, target lists, etc., to internal and external audiences.
• Building and maintaining positive stakeholder relationships through proactive communication.
• Supporting Research & Local Community
• Participating actively in the RRA research community to strengthen internal culture.
• Identifying and introducing potential employees to the firm, both opportunistically and for specific hiring needs.

The program aims to provide a solid foundation for future career growth within RRA or the broader professional services industry. Successful completion leads to a transfer to a Research Associate role.

Who are we looking for?

Candidates should have initial professional experience or a strong track record through internships or programs. We seek bright, dynamic, entrepreneurial individuals with a drive for excellence and curiosity. Ideal candidates are team-oriented, collegial, have a high sense of urgency, demonstrate integrity, and possess a positive attitude. They should thrive on challenges, manage multiple projects effectively, and communicate well with colleagues. A university degree from a respected institution is required, with proficiency in MS Office, Excel, and PowerPoint preferred.

Required skills include :

Additional qualities :

Applicants are asked to provide detailed responses to questions about language proficiency, degrees, current residence, work eligibility in the EU, motivation, and international experience to assess alignment with the role.

Russell Reynolds Associates is a global leadership advisory and executive search firm, helping clients build teams of transformational leaders. Our success is rooted in our collaborative culture and the quality of our people, with over 500 consultants across 47 offices in 25 countries.

Our core values guide our work :

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