Graduate Researcher

EXCEL SEARCH & ADVISORY is the world’s largest and leading retained executive search firm wholly dedicated to sports, media, and entertainment. Our Consultants have completed more than 1,500+ Executive Searches over their careers for teams, governing bodies, associations, ownership groups, media and entertainment businesses, and major consumer brands.

 

Position Summary: Excel Search & Advisory is seeking a talented and ambitious Graduate Researcher to join our London team. This is an exciting opportunity to launch your career at the intersection of sports, media and executive search - working alongside experienced consultants to identify and engage world-class leaders for some of the most prominent organisations in sport and entertainment.

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Research & Candidate Identification

• Conduct thorough market mapping and desk-based research to identify high-calibre candidates globally across sports, media and entertainment.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive longlists for active search assignments, utilising databases, LinkedIn, industry publications and proprietary networks.
• Assess candidate profiles against client briefs and produce clear written summaries for consultants.
• Support consultants in approaching and engaging prospective candidates with professionalism and discretion.

Project & Document Management

• Assist in the preparation of client-facing documents including position specifications, research updates, longlist and shortlist reports.
• Manage multiple research projects simultaneously, maintaining accuracy and meeting deadlines.
• Maintain and update the firm's CRM with current and relevant candidate information.

Sector Knowledge & Business Development

• Develop a strong understanding of the sports and entertainment landscape - clubs, leagues, governing bodies, media organisations and agencies.
• Monitor industry news, leadership movements and emerging trends to inform ongoing research.
• Contribute to business development activity including thought leadership and sector events.

Team & Culture

• Work closely with consultants and fellow researchers to support assignment delivery.
• Contribute positively to team knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.
• Participate in training sessions, feedback reviews and knowledge management workshops.

 

Education & Experience:

• Degree-level qualification (any discipline) or equivalent professional experience.
• Genuine passion for sport and/or the sports business industry.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills - clear, professional and precise.
• Strong research and analytical skills with sharp attention to detail.
• Proactive and self-motivated - able to manage multiple tasks in a dynamic environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the confidence to engage professionals at all levels.
• High levels of discretion, professionalism and personal integrity.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and comfort with digital research tools.

 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of or experience working within sports, media or entertainment.
• Exposure to CRM or database management tools.
• Additional language skills.

 

This position is eligible for benefits and discretionary bonus.

Ultimately, the salary may vary based upon, but not limited to, relevant experience, time in role, business sector, and geographic location, among other criteria.