Intelligence Analyst

Gather intelligence, help to gain a competitive edge, and prevent and solve crimes.

Career Overview

In the era of big data, there is a growing demand for experts with the knowledge and applied skills to assemble and analyze data. These business and intelligence analysts serve a wide range of industries and sectors. This includes organizations in financial services, law enforcement and national security to health care, real estate, marketing and non-profit community services.

Analysts play a key role in addressing some of the most difficult issues today including theft, fraud, cybercrime and terrorism. They also help support an organization’s strategic needs. They help mitigate and manage risk, build competitive profiles of organizations, and help find new growth opportunities.

Analyst Roles

• Intelligence analyst/officer

• Crime analyst

• Cybercrime analyst

• Business analyst

• Financial analyst

• Risk manager

• Fraud investigator/examiner

• Compliance officer/investigator

• Competitive intelligence professional

Career Prospects

There is growing demand across Canada and internationally for individuals with intelligence analysis skills.

According to Statistics Canada, more than 50,000 jobs in Canada will be open in this field over the next decade for positions ranging from intelligence analyst/officer and investigator to market intelligence analyst, risk management analyst, corporate risk manager and cybersecurity professionals.

While some of the career opportunities will be due to retirements, a significant portion will be due to economic growth and increased demand for intelligence/business analysts to meet new market demands and crime prevention initiatives at the local, national and international levels.

Personal Qualifications

• Strong ability to coordinate and organize

• Demonstrated analytical aptitude and training

• Demonstrated critical thinking skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Demonstrated ability to build relationships

• Curiosity and strong personal integrity

• Strong time management skills

Minimum Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in a related area of study is often required for analyst positions. A graduate-level program may also be required or preferred, in addition to several years of relevant work experience.

Additional professional certifications and training may also be required depending on the career path.