Research Director, Commercial Real Estate

Colliers International•Chicago, IL

3d•$131,940 - $180,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Research Director oversees the full research function for a major market, ensuring the delivery of accurate market intelligence, predictive insights, and compelling thought leadership. This role defines and executes the research strategy for the market and serves as the primary research voice for brokers, leaders, clients, and media outlets. The Research Director ensures high-quality outputs that support revenue growth, client engagement, and market positioning.

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.
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.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.

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.
Oversee quarterly market reports, dashboards, presentations, and custom deliverables.
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.

Benefits

Employer subsidized medical benefits including dental, vision
Employer paid basic life/AD&D insurance
Short-term / long-term disability
401k plan, which includes an employer match
10 days of sick leave
A minimum of 15-days vacation annually
10 paid holidays
Two personal flex days throughout the calendar year
Twelve weeks (for birth parents) for paid parental leave
4 weeks (for non-birth parents, including adoptive/foster parents) for paid parental leave