At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct field research and store audits to gather actionable data for decision-making.
- Company: Join a dynamic retail team bridging data and real-world insights.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, travel opportunities, and develop your analytical skills.
- Other info: Exciting role with opportunities for growth in the retail sector.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by transforming observations into strategic business decisions.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields and strong Excel skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
As the data eyes and ears on the ground, you will bridge the gap between our UK retail reality and business intelligence. This is not a desk-bound number-crunching role — you will spend significant time in the field, conducting store audits and turning qualitative market observations into structured, actionable data for decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
- UK Field Research & Store Audits
Regularly visit retail stores and partner channels across UK cities to conduct on-site observations and data collection. Execute standardised store audits including: foot traffic counting by time slots, consumer profile and behaviour recording, staff pitch evaluation, competitor shelf share, pricing, and promotion monitoring. Clean, tag, and structure qualitative information (consumer feedback, store manager interviews, social media trends) into insightful field reports that drive actions, not just descriptions.
- Operational Data Diagnostics & Attribution
Track and analyse key performance metrics for the UK market (conversion rate, dwell-time conversion, basket size, SKU velocity, payback period), with a clear understanding of the business definition behind every number. When sales fluctuate, triangulate data signals with your firsthand field observations to pinpoint root causes — going far beyond what a dashboard alone can tell.
- Data Infrastructure & Decision Support
Build and maintain UK market operation dashboards (weekly/monthly) using Excel (must) and BI tools, highlighting anomalies and opportunities visually. Participate in building light-weight P&L models and campaign ROI estimations to support store network planning and marketing resource allocation.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or above, preferably in Economics, Statistics, Business Analytics, Marketing, or related fields.
- Already possess the right to work in the UK.
- Strong data sensitivity: able to articulate the difference and relationship between operational metrics, and meticulous about data definitions.
- Advanced Excel skills (functions, pivot tables, basic modelling).
- An independently created data analysis portfolio is mandatory for submission.
- Excellent spoken and written English to independently conduct store interviews and write reports; business-level Mandarin Chinese is a strong plus for collaboration with our Shenzhen HQ.
- Willingness to travel frequently within the UK for field visits, managing your own itinerary and practicalities on the road.
- A valid UK driving licence is preferred.
- Genuine curiosity about retail and consumer behaviour, with a willingness to spend considerable time observing shoppers and shelves rather than just sitting behind a screen.
Nice to Have
- Internship or work experience in FMCG, vaping, consumer electronics, or retail, with an understanding of offline channel dynamics.
- Hands-on experience with BI tools (Power BI, Tableau).
- Knowledge of UK vaping regulations (e.g., age verification, TPD compliance).
Operation Data Analyst (Retail & International Markets) employer: Firstunion
As an Operation Data Analyst, you will thrive in a dynamic work environment that values hands-on experience and real-world insights. Our company fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, offering ample opportunities for professional growth while you engage directly with the retail landscape across the UK. With a commitment to employee development and a supportive atmosphere, we ensure that your contributions lead to meaningful impacts on our business strategies.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operation Data Analyst (Retail & International Markets)
✨Tip Number 1
Get out there and network! Attend industry events, meet-ups, or even local retail conferences. Chatting with people in the field can lead to opportunities you won’t find online.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t underestimate the power of informational interviews. Reach out to professionals in roles you’re interested in and ask for a quick chat. It’s a great way to learn and make connections!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your data analysis projects. This is especially important for us as we love seeing how you turn data into actionable insights.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who want to bridge the gap between data and real-world retail experiences. Don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Operation Data Analyst (Retail & International Markets)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Data Skills:Make sure to highlight your advanced Excel skills and any experience with BI tools. We want to see how you can turn numbers into insights, so don’t hold back on showcasing your data analysis portfolio!
Be a Storyteller:When writing your application, think about how you can turn your experiences into a compelling narrative. We love candidates who can articulate their observations and findings in a way that drives action — just like you would in the field!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific responsibilities and requirements of the Operation Data Analyst role. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for this unique position.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining the StudySmarter team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Firstunion
✨Know Your Data
Make sure you brush up on your data analysis skills, especially in Excel. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in past roles. Prepare examples of how you've turned qualitative observations into actionable insights.
✨Field Experience Matters
Since this role involves a lot of fieldwork, be prepared to talk about any relevant experiences you've had in retail or market research. Share specific instances where your observations led to significant findings or changes.
✨Show Your Curiosity
Demonstrate your genuine interest in retail and consumer behaviour during the interview. Ask insightful questions about the company's approach to market analysis and how they leverage data for decision-making.
✨Prepare Your Portfolio
Have your data analysis portfolio ready to showcase your skills. Highlight projects that align with the job description, especially those involving operational metrics and field research. Be ready to explain your thought process and the impact of your work.
