Director, Research – ADP Ventures (India-based, US Hours)

Director, Research – ADP Ventures (India-based, US Hours) Location: India (Remote or Hybrid) Function: Strategy / Research & Analysis Experience: 7–10 years Schedule: US Eastern Time About ADP Ventures ADP Ventures is the corporate innovation and venture arm of ADP, one of the world’s largest providers of human capital management (HCM) solutions. We invest in, build, and partner with early-stage companies that are shaping the future of work and workforce technology. We operate as a global team of strategists, investors, and innovators — bridging ADP and the startup ecosystem to drive new products, capabilities, and market signals around innovation. The Opportunity We are seeking a Director, Research to join our global ADP Ventures team. This India-based role will serve as the research and insights lead for Ventures — driving market intelligence, trend analysis, and thought leadership that fuel our Build–Buy–Invest–Partner agenda. You will work closely with our US-based Ventures leaders and partners, operating on US hours, and play a central role in shaping the insights that inform venture investments, startup partnerships, and innovation strategy. What You’ll Do As Director, Research, you will: Lead and execute end-to-end strategic research projects — from scoping and hypothesis framing to analysis and synthesis of actionable insights. Conduct deep-dive analyses on key venture themes such as AI in HR, payroll innovation, workforce analytics, and emerging HR Tech trends. Build and maintain structured market landscapes, startup ecosystem maps, and competitive benchmarks that inform ADP’s strategic priorities. Translate complex data and market signals into clear, compelling narratives and executive-level presentations. Collaborate with Ventures leadership to identify and validate emerging investment and partnership opportunities globally. Serve as a thought partner on thematic research and innovation trend monitoring. Cover India’s HR Tech and Future of Work ecosystem (approx. 15% of role), including startup tracking, ecosystem engagement, and opportunity scouting. This is not an investment role. What We’re Looking For 7–10 years of experience with a top-tier consulting strategy or investment banking team (e.g., GIR at Goldman Sachs/ Morgan Stanley, BCG, Bain, McKinsey) or in a comparable strategic insights role within a technology or investment organization. Deep expertise in market research, data-driven analysis, and executive storytelling. Proven ability to translate research findings into strategic recommendations that drive business or investment outcomes. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; proficiency in PowerPoint, Excel, and structured synthesis. Strong self-starter mindset with the ability to manage multiple priorities across global teams. Genuine curiosity about startups, venture capital, emerging technologies, and the future of work. Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (MBA, Master’s in Strategy, Economics, or related field) preferred. Why Join Us Influence ADP Ventures’ global investment and innovation strategy through research-driven insights. Collaborate with cross-functional leaders shaping ADP’s future through innovation and partnerships. Work in a dynamic, high-impact environment that blends startup agility with enterprise scale. Flexible work model based in India with full US Eastern time zone alignment. Apply now to help shape how ADP Ventures invests in, builds with, and partners for the future of work.