Graduate Trainee

Location:  London or Hybrid Salary: Competitive Start Date: As soon as possible Contract: 6 – month fixed term contract with possibility of extension

About Merlin Strategy

Merlin Strategy is a polling and research consultancy working with various clients to deliver clear, strategic insight. We combine rigorous methodology with sharp thinking to help our clients understand public opinion and make better decisions.

 We are trusted because we go beyond the headline numbers. Our work is defined by methodological rigour, intellectual honesty and a relentless focus on impact. We pride ourselves on asking better questions, interrogating data more deeply, and translating complex findings into clear strategic direction. Clients choose Merlin Strategy not just for accurate polling, but for thoughtful analysis, commercial and political awareness, and advice they can act on with confidence.

 The firm is led by Scarlett Maguire, one of the most respected strategists in the industry. Scarlett brings decades of experience advising senior political and corporate leaders, combining deep expertise in public opinion with sharp strategic judgement. She is known for her clarity of thinking, intellectual rigour and ability to translate complex data into decisive action. Under her leadership, Merlin Strategy has built a reputation for insight that is not only accurate, but genuinely influential.

 The Role

We are looking for a Graduate Trainee to join our growing team. This is an entry-level role designed for someone curious, analytical and motivated to build a career in research, polling and strategy.

You will work across the full research cycle, from questionnaire design to analysis and client-ready outputs. We are looking to hire ambitious and driven candidates who are eager to learn and play a key part in boosting Merlin Strategy’s strategic outputs.

Key Responsibilities

  • Supporting the design of surveys and research projects

  • Drafting questionnaires and discussion guides

  • Managing fieldwork and liaising with suppliers

  • Cleaning and analysing quantitative data sets

  • Contributing to insight generation and strategic recommendations

  • Producing clear, visually engaging charts and presentations

  • Drafting reports and briefings for the senior team

  • Supporting business development and proposal writing

What We’re Looking For

Essential:

  • A strong academic background

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

  • Strong numerical and analytical ability

  • High attention to detail

  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines

  • Excellent ability using Excel and PowerPoint

  • Interest in politics, public opinion, policy, or social research

Desirable:

  • Experience using statistical software (e.g. R, SPSS, Stata or Python)

  • Previous internship or work experience in research, consultancy, politics or data analysis

  • Experience with data visualisation tools

  • Understanding of quantitative research methods

What We Offer

  • Salary: Competitive

  • Annual leave: 25 days + bank holidays pro-rata

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a short covering letter no more than two pages explaining why you are interested in Merlin Strategy and this role to: info@merlinstrategy.com

Application deadline: We will be considering applications on a rolling basis with the position closed once we have the right candidate.