Chris Smith

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About Chris

Chris Smith (CMgr FIML) is a senior analyst and strategic business advisor with more than 30 years’ experience delivering evidence-based insights and data-driven solutions. As Head of Research he leads the Benchmark research practice, including our research division, Benchmark Business Research, and the national studies we deliver for industry partners.

Since 1994 Chris has specialised in research-based strategic management services, conducting company analysis, market research and performance reporting across property, construction, professional services, manufacturing, tourism, retail and export trade. His work spans start-ups to large corporates, delivering feasibility studies, risk assessments and competitive intelligence.

Chris applies a hybrid AI methodology: advanced AI does the heavy lifting in data harvesting, scanning markets, competitors and emerging trends at a scale and speed no traditional research team can match, and every finding is then interrogated, contextualised and refined through three decades of human analysis. The result is intelligence with both breadth and depth, so clients can identify growth opportunities early and act on forward-looking recommendations with confidence.

Areas of Expertise

• Market, competitor and industry research
• Feasibility studies, risk assessment and competitive intelligence
• Company analysis and performance reporting
• Hybrid AI research methodology
• Property marketing and sales strategy

Career Highlights

• Chartered Manager and Fellow of the Institute of Managers and Leaders
• Founder or co-founder of research, advisory, media, marketing and export & trade companies
• Research and sales strategy on landmark Queensland projects including Robina, Runaway Islands, Sovereign Islands, Sanctuary Cove and The Outlook
• Advisory and property marketing services to developers and real estate companies in Australia, the United States, the Middle East and South-East Asia