Job Title: Trainee Research Executive

Location: London

Salary: £26,250 (initial)

Contract Type: Permanent

About Survation

Survation is a leading market research and political polling company, delivering high-quality insights to businesses, political organisations, and charities. Our work informs policymakers, corporate decision-makers, and public discourse, helping to shape the way organisations respond to the biggest challenges of our time.

We believe that research should drive real-world change, and we take a method-neutral, evidence-based approach to answering complex questions. Whether it’s influencing public policy, shaping business strategies, or uncovering social attitudes, our research makes a tangible impact.

The Role

We are looking for a Trainee Research Executive to join our growing team. This is an entry-level role, designed for someone who is passionate about public opinion, polling, and data-driven decision-making.

This role is ideal for a candidate who has some experience with data analysis and is eager to develop their skills in quantitative and qualitative research. If you’re interested in seeing how research translates into real-world influence—whether in government, media, or business—this is the perfect opportunity.

You will receive full training and hands-on experience across a variety of research projects, working directly with clients, stakeholders, and decision-makers. This includes supporting work for party conferences, including the Labour Party Conference, helping to prepare reports and engage with key political and industry figures.

What You’ll Do

– Design questionnaires and surveys that gather valuable public opinion insights.

– Manage research projects, ensuring high-quality execution from start to finish.

– Work with real data, performing analysis, checking accuracy, and generating insights.

– Engage with clients, supporting them with research findings and contributing to reports that shape decision-making.

– Assist in writing public-facing reports, press releases, and blog posts, helping to communicate research findings to wider audiences, including policymakers, journalists, and industry leaders.

– Attend and contribute to client meetings alongside senior researchers, gaining first-hand experience in working with government, businesses, and the third sector.

– Support preparation and engagement for events and party conferences, ensuring Survation’s research is effectively communicated in political and policy discussions.

What We’re Looking For

– A genuine passion for research, data, and polling, with an eagerness to learn.

– Some experience with data analysis (academic, professional, or self-taught). Knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint, and basic data handling is required. Experience with statistical software such as R, Python or SPSS is a plus.

– Interest in UK politics, public opinion, and current affairs.

– Strong attention to detail—accuracy in research is critical.

– Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to explain research findings clearly.

– A proactive and flexible attitude, with a willingness to take on different tasks as needed.

– The ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects.

Why Join Survation?

– You will receive hands-on training in market research, polling, and data analysis.

– The opportunity to work on real-world issues that influence policy, business, and public debate.

– Exposure to high-profile clients, politicians, and industry leaders.

– A structured career path, with opportunities to grow within the company.

– The chance to develop public-facing skills, including writing and presenting research findings.

How to Apply

Applications should be sent to careers@survation.com and include your CV (cover letter optional) and a short (c. 500 word) blog/op-ed on one of the following questions:

– What is one overlooked trend in UK voting behaviour that could have a major impact on the next general election?

– How is the rise of misinformation affecting public trust in UK news media?

– If you could commission a poll on any topic, what would it be and why?

– What role should polling play in modern democracy, and what are the biggest challenges the industry faces today?

– Public trust in politicians is at an all-time low. What should be done to rebuild confidence in political leadership and institutions in the UK?

– Does social media help or hinder political engagement among younger voters in the UK?

– What is one policy that could improve living standards in the UK but is currently not receiving enough attention?

– What should the UK’s priorities be in tackling regional inequality?

Application Deadline: 24th March 2025

Equal Opportunities

Survation is a diverse organisation and takes pride in being an equal opportunities employer. Find out more about our Equal Opportunities policy here.