Senior Research Analyst

If youve spent time studying or working outside Japan and youre ready to put that global perspective to work this role was built for you. Japans IT services market is one of the most complex and distinctive in the world and IDC needs analysts who can read it from the inside while connecting it to whats happening globally. That combination is rare and its exactly what makes this role compelling.

About the Role

This is an opportunity to shape how the world understands Japans IT services market and to do it from Tokyo at the center of one of Asia-Pacifics most dynamic technology ecosystems.

As a Research Analyst on IDC Japans Services team you will lead original research on Japans IT services landscape with a particular focus on mid-tier vendors system integrators and domestic local vendors that define much of the markets character. You will contribute to two flagship IDC programs the Japan Services CIS program and the Worldwide Semiannual Services Tracker and collaborate closely with IDCs global and Asia-Pacific analyst network.

This role is well-suited for candidates who have pursued graduate education internationally and are ready to return to Japan to build a career at the intersection of technology business strategy and market intelligence. You will bring a global perspective to a market that is deeply local and that combination is exactly what our clients need.

What Youll Do

Research & Analysis

• Lead ongoing research and analysis of Japans IT services market with a focus on mid-tier vendors system integrators and local players
• Develop market forecasts vendor share analyses and demand-side surveys of enterprise IT buyers
• Conduct primary research including interviews with IT suppliers and user companies web surveys and secondary data analysis
• Author high-quality research reports market perspectives and vendor assessments for IDCs syndicated research services

Client Engagement & Business Development

• Provide direct analyst support to mid-tier clients translating research into actionable guidance
• Support business development for cloud-related subscription and custom research services
• Present at external industry events and IDC-hosted events on cloud and services market trends
• Engage in consulting projects and deliver advisory services to technology vendors and buyers

Global Collaboration

• Partner with IDCs Asia-Pacific and global services analysts to contribute a Japanese market perspective to IDCs worldwide thought leadership
• Build and maintain relationships with services vendors and system integrators across Japan especially in the mid-tier and local vendor segments

What You Bring

Were looking for candidates who combine analytical rigor IT market knowledge and the ability to work fluently across Japanese and international business contexts. There is no single background that defines a strong candidate we welcome applications from those who bring experience from different angles:

• IT vendor system integrator or consulting firm experience: Background in system development implementation support IT solution marketing or business planning with solid knowledge of the IT market
• Enterprise IT buyer experience: Experience selecting and implementing vendors or systems or managing technology planning at a client organization with knowledge of IT products and solutions
• Analyst or research background: Experience conducting IT market research competitive analysis or technology advisory particularly relevant for candidates transitioning from other analyst roles

Skills & Qualifications

• Japanese: Native or near-native proficiency (reading writing and speaking) required for client-facing research and vendor engagement in Japan
• English: Business-level proficiency for collaboration with global IDC teams international report writing and external communications
• Education: Bachelors degree required; graduate degree (MBA or equivalent) a strong plus particularly for candidates with international academic experience who are returning to Japan
• Analytical tools: Proficiency in Excel (including pivot tables and data modeling) PowerPoint and Word
• Curiosity & rigor: Genuine interest in technology markets strong analytical thinking and the ability to synthesize complex information into clear compelling insights

Why This Role Stands Out
At IDC your work helps shape how the world understands technology and where it goes next. You collaborate with curious high-caliber colleagues who value rigor integrity and shared success. As the premier global provider of trusted technology intelligence IDC equips business and technology leaders with the evidence they need to make confident decisions. Our insights inform strategy investment and innovation across industries and regions.

Recognized by IIAR as Analyst Firm of the Year for five consecutive years IDC sets the standard for credibility and impact. With more than 1000 analysts worldwide and a truly global perspective we combine deep expertise with practical relevance. Here your ideas matter your voice is heard and your contributions provide the insights leaders rely on every day. It is meaningful work backed by a culture that supports growth collaboration and long-term career development with a globally respected brand.

This is an ongoing talent pipeline posting. We review applications on a rolling basis and extend offers as strong candidates are identified and business needs are confirmed. Submitting your application does not guarantee an immediate opening but it ensures your profile is considered as opportunities become available. We will reach out if your background is a strong match.

Equal Opportunity Employer

IDC is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all qualified persons. Employment eligibility verification required. We participate in E-Verify.