Economic Research Assistant New Belfast

The Financial Times is one of the world’s leading news organisations, globally recognised for its authority, integrity and accuracy, with a mission to deliver quality information and services worldwide. At the FT, curiosity thrives and ambitious thinking is rewarded. Here, you’re given the chance to reach millions, create work that matters and deliver impartial journalism in a polarised world. In our warm, collaborative culture, you’ll connect with a diverse community of experts who support your growth, career aspirations and wellbeing. Your future at the FT will be filled with opportunities that challenge and inspire you. With no fixed path, you’ll discover new skills and forge a career that can take you anywhere. Build a newsworthy career at the FT.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

We believe in the power of unique perspectives and want all voices in our organisation to be heard, respected and valued. A supportive workplace is one where employees feel they can be themselves and operate to their full potential. We are committed to removing barriers for everyone, with a focus on addressing those faced by underrepresented groups.

The Role

fDi Intelligence is a specialist division of the Financial Times, providing industry-leading insight into globalisation, foreign direct investment and economic development. Its portfolio of products and services helps companies and economic development organisations make informed decisions about foreign direct investment. fDi Benchmark is an online database and location assessment tool that evaluates the attractiveness of countries and cities worldwide for specific sectors and investment projects. It provides access to high-quality, comparable data and business case tools that support investment decision‑making.

We are looking for an Economic Research Assistant to join the fDi Intelligence team. In this role, you will conduct in‑depth desk‑based research into economic, business and investment factors, identify and collect relevant data, and maintain accurate information within the fDi Benchmark database. This is an opportunity to build specialist knowledge of globalisation, cross‑border investment and economic development while developing strong research, analytical and data management skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Input, update and maintain new and existing data in the fDi Benchmark database.
• Ensure the database is accurate, consistent and up to date.
• Research a range of public and specialist sources to identify key determinants of investment attractiveness.
• Support the development and improvement of information sources used across fDi Benchmark.
• Conduct ad‑hoc research, data and production tasks to support the wider fDi Intelligence team.
• Provide data support for the Sales team, helping respond to client and prospect requirements.
• Contribute to the quality and reliability of fDi Benchmark as a trusted location assessment tool.

Required Skills and Experience

• A degree with an economics, statistics, data, business, geography or related analytical element.
• Excellent research and analytical skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Ability to gather, assess and organise information from a range of sources.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and use initiative.
• Highly organised, with the ability to plan, prioritise and manage tasks effectively.
• A collaborative and adaptable approach, with a positive attitude.
• Knowledge of one or more major European or world languages.
• Understanding of economic globalisation, foreign direct investment or cross‑border investment.
• Previous experience in an online, database management, desk‑based research or data‑focused environment.
• Analytical and report‑writing skills.
• Interest in economic development, investment promotion or global business trends.

What’s in it for You?

Our benefits vary by location but we are committed to providing best‑in‑class perks across all our offices. These include generous annual leave, medical cover, inclusive parental leave packages, subsidised gym memberships and opportunities to give back to the community. Full details of our benefits are available here. We’ve embraced a 50% hybrid working model (averaging two to three days onsite) that fosters trust and remote adaptability while encouraging in‑person camaraderie and peer learning. Additionally, we are open to accommodating specific flexible working pattern requests for all roles where feasible.

Accessibility

We are a disability confident employer and Valuable 500 signatory. Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments/personalisation as part of the application process or to enable you to attend an interview. If you would like to discuss your requirements or have any questions, email talent@ft.com and a member of our team will be happy to help.