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Allstate Insurance Corporation
Location: Northbrook, IL 60062 Document ID: A4351-0KBK Posted on: 2010-11-0811/08/2010 Job Type: RegularJob Schedule:Full-time
2010-12-08
Research Analyst - (Job Number: 000B4O)
Position: Research Analyst
Department Name: Allstate Management Consulting Services
Allstate's Management Consulting Services provides Business Concept and Opportunity Definition, New Operating Model Development (Business Transformation), Technology Consulting & Research, Organizational Design and Process Design & Improvement services to Allstate.
The Research Analyst will be a member of the Technology Consulting & Research service, which functions as an internal Technology Strategy and Research group for Allstate. The scope of this role is to provide information, contacts, thought leadership and perspectives on technology-related topics. The Research Analyst will be responsible for utilizing internal and external sources to gather data and provide analysis on research topics assigned by the team leader. These topics may include:
- Emerging technologies and vendors that show significant potential for enhancing or changing the Allstate business model
- Technological impact of key events affecting the financial services and insurance industries
- Use of technology by competitors and best of breed companies
- Other technology-related topics as determined by Allstate technology and business drivers
The Research Analyst will work closely with external industry analysts, and other subject matter experts to gather research data perform analysis on assigned topics. These requests may include information on vendors, products, industry best practices, typical costs, issues, benchmarks, metrics and other information required to support the objectives of the requests. Sources of information may include Web research, vendor briefings, industry analysts, external advisory group services, trade publications, product announcements, press releases, markets and financial information, industry and technology organizations. Deliverables created by the Research Analyst may take the form of white papers, newsletters, presentations, and executive summaries.
The individual will be responsible for:
- Using research findings to develop and document recommendations regarding new technologies
- Evaluating readiness and effectiveness of new technologies and providing adoption advice
- Developing thought capital research and participating in recommending technologies that increase business effectiveness
- Encouraging others to understand the benefits and possibilities of technology
- Recommending new research tools and techniques
- Proactively monitoring the technology capabilities of Allstate's competitors
- Adhering to standards and guidelines for documenting and publishing information
- Supporting the team's implementation of a central repository for research information
- Providing Allstate leaders information on the US insurance market from a business and technology perspective
Hear what current employees have to say about working at Allstate: www.allstate.com/Allstate/content/refresh-videos/HR/Allstate_General_Hiring.wmv!
Qualification
Knowledge and expertise should include:
- Strategic Methodologies - experience with strategic planning, change management, benchmarking, Six Sigma methodology, re-engineering, financial modeling and/or best practices in financial services
- Strategic Planning - strategic planning skills and relevant experience developing integrated planning processes; hands-on experience developing strategic, financial and business plans
- Problem-Solving - advanced problem-solving skills: actively participating in brainstorming, identifying core issues, structuring problems, effectively finding and using data and independently managing complex analysis
- Management and Planning - experience leading cross-functional project teams with limited direct line responsibility and exceptional project management skills
- Client Service - proactively reaches out to help internal client organizations. Understands implications of the client situation to improve organizational effectiveness; develops solid and enduring relations with clients, as a trusted advisor
- Industry Knowledge - knowledge of financial services products, channels, consumer trends and industry/competitive dynamics; ability to glean marketplace insights to inform strategic direction and operating plans
- Technology Knowledge - advanced Microsoft Office capabilities (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio and Publisher)
Skills Required:
Candidate must possess a demonstrated ability to structure, organize and determine the relevancy of research data, effectively analyze the data communicate findings. Specific skills required are:
- Strong IT and Insurance Industry Knowledge
- Strong Analytical Skills
- Ability to Influence Others
- Strong Oral and Written Communication Skills
- Strong Relationship Management Skills
- Ability to multi-task and prioritize work
Experience Required:
- Previous research experience required working with industry analysts and utilizing various technical information resources.
- Previous work experience in a technical discipline.
Computer Proficiency:
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), Internet Explorer and Web search techniques
Education:
- College - Preferred






