There is big scope in market research: Statistician

What’s the job scene for statisticians in market research?
Very solid. There’s heavy application of statistics in market research (MR) today. It’s required in the local market research industry — consumer durable or FMCG companies — where you work with clients.

You do projects for them, which involves a lot of analysis. In this work, you run statistical tools and use statistical modelling.

A lot of statistical modelling is also now done in India for overseas clients by market research KPOs (knowledge process outsourcing companies) or KPO divisions of India-based MR companies.

Many market research KPOs in India are now working for overseas clients. Nielsen has a statistical modelling centre in India for overseas clients.

Then, many market research agencies are setting up research and development centres in India, not for external client work but solely for R&D. Nielsen has a large team working at its R&D centre in Mumbai.

Are they all postgraduates in statistics?
They are not necessarily all statisticians. We have both PGs and graduates in statistics and maths.

How do the salaries of PG degree holders in economics, stats and maths compare?
The average salaries are quite similar.

Qualities you look for in candidates for statisticians’ profiles?
An application-oriented mindset is essential. You should be a good team player — whether it’s R&D or client project, you have to function in a team.