Research Director, Commercial Real Estate

About the role

This position is an Onsite role based out of Chicago, IL.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the research strategy for the major market to support growth objectives, client needs, and competitive positioning.
• Produce forward-looking analysis and insights used in business development, market forecasting, and client advisory.
• Lead, coach, and manage research staff, ensuring delivery of high-quality, timely research materials and effective workflow management.
• Support ongoing skill development, team progression, and adoption of best practices.
• Create compelling narratives that highlight trends, risks, and opportunities across submarkets.
• Serve as the primary research spokesperson for the market in media, industry groups, client presentations, and events.
• Partner with brokerage, marketing, and valuation teams to craft strategic insights for pursuits, pitches, and portfolio reviews.
• Provide analytics and market intelligence for major client opportunities.
• Implement advanced analytics tools, BI platforms, and improved data-storytelling methods.
• Introduce process improvements that streamline workflows and elevate the quality of research outputs.
• Ensure accuracy, consistency, and methodological rigor across datasets and published reports.
• Maintain data validation processes and continuously improve data quality.
• Collaborate with GIS, IT, marketing, and operations to improve tools, integrations, and reporting frameworks.
• Participate in regional research forums to align with broader priorities and share best practices.
• Contribute to multi-market and regional thought leadership, including collaboration on reports, forecasts, and client deliverables beyond the Chicago market.
• Provide guidance and support to research teams in adjacent or emerging markets as needed.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in the commercial real estate industry, with 5+ years in a leadership role with direct accountability for managing teams, performance, and complex analytical programs.
• Bachelor's degree in business, economics, real estate or related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Expertise in research platforms (CoStar, MSCI-RCA) and BI tools (Tableau, Power BI, or equivalent).
• Mastery of predictive analytics, modeling tools, and AI-driven methodologies.
• Strong proficiency of the Microsoft Office Suite, specifically in Excel, as well as other data visualization tools.
• Strong communicator and ability to interface and manage senior stakeholder expectations.
• Possesses superior writing, presentation, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Qualifications

• Passionate and data-driven researcher with a track record of translating market intelligence into actionable insights.
• Confident in serving as the go-to research voice for brokers, leadership, clients, and media.
• Experience leading and mentoring high-performing research teams.
• Ability to communicate insights clearly and credibly to various stakeholders.
• Experience in developing and executing comprehensive research strategies.
• Knowledgeable in advanced analytics tools and methodologies.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Experience in creating compelling narratives and presentations.
• Experience in collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Experience in implementing process improvements and enhancing data quality.

Skills

• Data analysis and interpretation.
• Market research and analysis.
• Strategic planning and execution.
• Team leadership and mentorship.
• Effective communication and presentation skills.
• Advanced analytics tools and methodologies.
• Project management and workflow optimization.
• Collaboration and teamwork.

Benefits

Employees are provided options for employer subsidized medical benefits including dental, vision as well as employer paid basic life/AD&D insurance and short-term / long-term disability. Employees are able to enroll in our company’s 401k plan, which includes an employer match. Employees will also receive 10 days of sick leave and a minimum of 15-days vacation annually. Certain senior-level roles are eligible for unlimited time off. Employees will also enjoy 10 paid holidays plus two personal flex days throughout the calendar year. Twelve weeks (for birth parents) and 4 weeks (for non-birth parents, including adoptive/foster parents) for paid parental leave will also be available for use after successful completion of 90 days of employment.

Pay

$131,940 to $180,000 USD

Schedule

Full-time