Research Analyst - Real Estate

ABOUT WATG

WATG is the world’s preeminent destination and hospitality design firm. We are employee-owned, almost 80 years young, and home to over 500 creative, globe-trotting professionals located remotely and in our offices in Atlantic City, California, Dallas, New York, Honolulu, London, Singapore, and Shanghai.

Our approach to design applies a hospitality ethos to the development of all shapes and sizes. From initial feasibility studies to finishing touches, we operate globally as an integrated, multidisciplinary practice. Along with our interior design studio, Wimberly Interiors, we specialize in hospitality, gaming + entertainment, urban + mixed-use, and high-end residential design.

We were founded in Honolulu in 1945, and the spirit of the islands taught us to focus on community strength, self-reliance, and sustainability – which we still prioritize today. We passionately believe that culture and heritage are the roots that lead to long-term resilience. We stay true to our values of designing spaces that respect, protect, and enhance the natural magic of their surroundings while delivering long-term value for our clients and their communities.  

ABOUT WATG GLOBAL RESEARCH AND INNOVATION

The WATG Global Research and Innovation studio supports the growth of the firm, while partnering with leadership to explore new, industry-shifting ideas in hospitality and adjacent industries.

We seek a Research Analyst to work out of our offices in California, London, or New York. This is a unique opportunity to join a growing global studio and make your mark through rigorous research and curious endeavors. 

ROLE

As part of this highly ambiguous and self-motivating team, the ideal candidate would be expected to contribute to the formation, future direction, and ongoing strategy of research globally. As a Research  Analyst, you will be a creative problem solver through rigorous research and big ideas that have the potential to shift the direction of WATG. The role leverages business strategy expertise and executive presence as you work directly with firm leadership, driving research-based insights that shape the future of our firm and our clients.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conducts data collection and analysis across global markets to inform WATG’s strategic business planning in hospitality, multifamily, senior living, and gaming sectors
• With guidance from the Research Manager, works directly with regional Managing Directors, Studio Leaders, and Business Development Directors to deliver reports and insights
• Leads the tracking and analysis of real estate supply and demand, integrating internal project data with external market insights to identify patterns
• Oversees the report process, creating regular market reports and author research to include written analysis, statistics and market activity
• Monitors and reports on travel trends, consumer preferences, and strategic tourism investments in global markets
• Conducts human-factors research on customer satisfaction, consumer trends, and industry trends to support design research initiatives
• Assists the Research Manager on large projects and global initiatives with data structuring, collection, analytics and implementation of findings
• Occasionally works on hospitality client projects and with guidance from our Advisory Studio across our three primary hubs: Los Angeles, London, and Singapore
• Occasional travel required (up to 15%)

QUALIFICATIONS

• Degree in real estate, business analytics, design research, or other related fields
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in a research-related or business strategy role
• Software knowledge of PowerBI, SQL, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Deep domain expertise or background in market research, real estate analytics, consulting, business analytics, or design research
• Strong business acumen and understanding of global markets and local trends in the Americas, EMEA, and APAC
• Adept at both market research (economic data, hospitality metrics) as well as design research analysis (customer data and project data)
• Creative thinker, capable of coming up with ideas and seeing patterns in data
• Strong data analytics, data modeling and data interpretation skills
• Strong technical research writing
• Knowledge in creating, structuring, and delivering accurate market research
• Excellent presentation skills with heightened written communication skills, capable of producing clear and insightful reports
• Experience in both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies
• Well-travelled with a broad understanding of geography, economics, and global affairs

*Please include a copy of your resume and work samples or portfolio to be considered for this position.

LOCATION

This position will be located in any one of the following WATG offices:

• Los Angeles
• Tustin
• New York City
• London