The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Graduate Analyst Programme
0-1 yearSkills to master
- Data cleaning, basic reporting, understanding business context, foundational market research techniques.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently accurate data outputs.
- Proactive in asking clarifying questions and seeking learning opportunities.
- Can independently complete routine data collection tasks.
- 2
Market Research Assistant (from another industry)
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- Adapting market research skills to our specific industry, learning our tech stack, understanding our competitive landscape.
You're ready to move on when
- Quickly picks up industry-specific terminology and trends.
- Can translate external research findings into relevant insights for our business.
- Demonstrates strong organisational skills for managing multiple research projects.
- 3
Data Analyst (from a non-MI function)
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- Applying analytical skills to market data, understanding competitive dynamics, developing qualitative research skills.
You're ready to move on when
- Strong technical proficiency in data manipulation and visualisation.
- Shows keen interest in external market factors and competitor behaviour.
- Asks insightful questions about the 'why' behind market shifts.


