Operational researcher/business systems analyst

Work activities typically involve:

• Interviewing managers
• Gathering relevant hard and soft data from systems and personnel at various levels within the organisation
• Defining the problem and the results sought
• Collecting and analysing data and developing models, often using spreadsheets, databases and pragmatic, numerical approaches to solve problems
• Using analytical methods, which can be very varied depending on the situation under examination
• Using mathematical programming techniques
• Using statistical methods and testing hypotheses
• Identifying innovative and pragmatic solutions to clients' management problems and testing these solutions
• Feeding in results and helping to implement chosen options
• Compiling a report of findings and making presentations to clients, often requiring clear and persuasive explanation of complex processes to a non-technical audience

During the life cycle of a project, communicating clearly with clients is vitally important in order to explain the progress and results of the work to them in non-technical language that can result in change being effectively implemented.

This is a degree-level role at least. A pre-entry postgraduate qualification is desirable for work in some sectors. Many employers, particularly consultancies, prefer a Masters in management science or operational research or related disciplines, and many still look for a 2:1 in their first degree. Doctoral graduates with a numerate, management or operational research background may be at an advantage.

Pre-entry experience is not needed, although a relevant vacation or course placement may improve your chances.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• The ability to identify and deploy appropriate advanced analytical techniques
• A strong understanding of mathematical concepts
• The ability to turn raw mathematical data into meaningful information
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to explain solutions clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences
• The ability to establish a rapport with colleagues and clients
• Flexibility and the ability to pick up new ideas

• Range of typical starting salaries is £20,000 - £27,000. Salary will depend on location, sector and the candidate's academic background.
• Range of typical salaries at senior level is £40,000 - £80,000 with salaries at the lower end in the public sector.
• Salaries tend to be highest in self-employment and consultancy and may reach up to or possibly above £100,000 where specialists are involved more in strategic planning than in analysis.

Self-employment/freelance work is possible but only after having gained significant experience. The main opportunities are with consultancies.The work is results oriented and customer focused with projects managed to strict deadlines. Overseas travel may be required occasionally. Travel is more common in consultancies.

Sector information

Operational researchers/business systems analysts are found across a wide range of industrial sectors

Doctoral graduates from 2006-9 working in this occupation were known to be employed in the following profiled sectors six months after graduation:

• Engineering, manufacturing, technology and construction
• Financial services
• Health
• Higher education
• Information technology and computing
• Public administration
• Scientific research and development
• UK defence and the armed forces

Disciplinary background

The most common disciplinary backgrounds for doctoral graduates (2006-2009) entering operational research jobs were:

• Biology
• Business studies
• Geology
• Information systems
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Politics

None available

• Datatech Search and Selection
• OR (Operational Research) Society.
• Government Operational Research Service (GORS)
• Prospect Recruitment