Research & Strategy Specialist

Do you love digging into a market, sizing up the competition, and coming back with a clear-eyed recommendation Are you the kind of person who can research five different business models in a week, keep a founder on track without being asked twice, and turn a messy idea into a structured plan If you thrive on ambiguity, enjoy building things from scratch, and want a front-row seat as new ventures take shape, this opportunity could be the perfect fit for you.

Our Story Starts with People Like You

The two founders, best friends, were running businesses that needed great talent fast. So, they started building remote teams across countries like the Philippines, Colombia, and India. Not only did it work, it thrived. They realized that talent isn't limited by geography. With today's technology and high-speed internet, we're able to build high-performing global teams that support businesses across the U.S. So ClearDesk was born.

Today, ClearDesk helps U.S. businesses grow by building world-class remote teams. We don't just connect talent; we manage the entire experience, from recruiting to retention. And while we help clients thrive, we also stay deeply committed to helping our remote team members build real, lasting careers that support their lives and their families.

That's where you come in.

The Role: Business Development & Research Virtual Assistant

Imagine being the research partner and accountability system behind a founder exploring what to build next. Every market you scan, every expert you interview, and every report you deliver helps turn a rough idea into a business with real legs.

You're not just gathering information. You're helping evaluate which ventures are worth pursuing, whether that's a consulting practice, an AI-powered product, a real estate play, or something not yet on the table. From researching competitors to setting up the compliance backbone a new entity needs, your work directly shapes which ideas move forward and how well they're built.

You thrive on structure in unstructured situations, are comfortable reaching out to strangers for insight, and don't wait to be told the next step. Whether you're comparing three business models side by side, chasing down a deadline, or drafting the first SOP for a brand-new process, you bring rigor, initiative, and follow-through to everything you touch.

What Your Days Might Look Like:

• Conduct extensive research on potential business ventures, including consulting services, AI applications, real estate development, and other entrepreneurial opportunities
• Help identify and evaluate 2-3 initial business ideas by researching market viability, competition, and potential profitability
• Reach out to industry experts and mentors to gather professional insights and recommendations for business development
• Prepare detailed reports with pros-and-cons analysis for each business concept under consideration
• Assist in developing systems, processes, and compliance frameworks from the ground up to ensure strong business foundations
• Hold the founder accountable for project timelines and deadlines, proactively following up on milestones and deliverables
• Support in setting up legal entity structures and ensuring compliance with government regulations at the state, municipal, and federal levels
• Collaborate on creating SOPs and training structures as the business develops
• Work across multiple projects simultaneously once initial ventures are established
• Present findings clearly and be prepared to discuss recommendations during regular check-ins
• Ask clarifying questions proactively to avoid misunderstandings and keep projects moving forward
• Adapt to ambiguity and stay comfortable working in an evolving startup environment where processes are still being defined

Who We Think Will Thrive in This Role:

• You have strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to conduct thorough market research and present well-thought-out findings.
• You can work independently with minimal supervision and are self-motivated to complete tasks without constant oversight.
• You communicate with confidence, comfortable reaching out to experts and stakeholders to gather information and insight.
• You can prepare clear, detailed, well-organized written reports.
• You have experience developing ideas from concept to execution, or supporting someone who has successfully built ventures from the ground up.
• You're comfortable holding others accountable, including proactively following up on deadlines and deliverables.
• You're organized and can manage multiple projects, priorities, and open threads at once
• You're resourceful when researching unfamiliar industries, tools, or regulatory requirements.
• You're comfortable with ambiguity and can bring structure to a process that's still being defined.
• You enjoy collaborating and thriving in a remote team environment.
• You are willing to work in a US time zone schedule.
• You can secure the required technical setup, including:
• At least a 720p HD webcam
• A noise-canceling headset
• A primary internet connection of at least 25 Mbps
• A backup laptop, backup internet device, and backup power source
• A main computer with at least Intel Core i5 (or equivalent) and 8 GB RAM
• A backup computer with at least Intel Core i3 and 4 GB RAM

Why ClearDesk

Because we believe work should be meaningful, even from home.

At ClearDesk, you'll work with clients who respect your time and value your skills. You'll join a remote-first team that genuinely supports you, and you'll see the impact of your work in real, tangible ways that matter to the people you work with.

We don't just want you to do your job. We want you to grow with us, stay with us, and feel proud of the difference you're making.

Here's what you can expect from us:

• We pay you fairly and on time
• We provide prepaid HMO coverage for your peace of mind
• We help you grow with tools, training, and honest feedback
• We celebrate your wins
• And above all, we actually care

Ready to be part of something that matters

Apply now and start your journey with ClearDesk.

Important Reminder: ClearDesk does not ask for any monetary payments or fees as part of our employment process. If you encounter any request for payment, please disregard it and report it to us immediately. For your security, please ensure that all communications are conducted through emails originating from (@cleardesk.com or @cleardeskteam.com).

Disclaimer: Candidates who apply for this position may be re-profiled to similar roles depending on their qualifications, experience, and current market demand.