Market and industry research
Understanding markets, competitors and industries before big decisions.
Explore research
Head of Research
Chris Smith
Research and strategic insight.
Chris leads Benchmark Business Research, including the national studies the group delivers for industry partners. He brings more than 30 years as a senior analyst and strategic business advisor.
- CMgr FIML
- 30+ years
- Market research
- Feasibility studies
- AI-assisted research
- Leads
- Benchmark Business Research
- Experience
- 30+ years as analyst and strategic advisor
- Qualifications
- Chartered Manager, CMgr FIML
- Specialist since
- 1994, research-based strategy
About Chris
Decisions backed by real research
Chris has specialised in research-based strategic management since 1994, working with businesses from start-ups to large corporates. He is a Chartered Manager and Fellow of the Institute of Managers and Leaders (CMgr FIML), and has founded or co-founded research, advisory, media, marketing, and export and trade companies.
He leads Benchmark Business Research and the national studies the group delivers for industry partners. His work covers market, competitor and industry research, feasibility studies, risk assessment, competitive intelligence and company performance reporting, using a hybrid method that pairs AI-driven data gathering with human analysis.
His industry experience spans property, construction, professional services, manufacturing, tourism, retail and export trade. He has led research and sales strategy on Queensland projects including Robina, Sovereign Islands, Sanctuary Cove and The Outlook, and advised developers and real estate companies in Australia, the United States, the Middle East and South-East Asia.
Experience highlights
- 1994Began specialising in research-based strategic management
- 30+ yearsSenior analyst and strategic business advisor
- ProjectsRobina, Sovereign Islands, Sanctuary Cove and The Outlook
- ReachAustralia, the US, the Middle East and South-East Asia
Talk to Chris about
- Market and competitor research
- Feasibility and risk
- Industry studies
How Chris helps owners
Where he spends most of his time
Feasibility and risk
Feasibility studies and risk assessment for new ventures and projects.
Explore researchCompany analysis
Competitive intelligence and company performance reporting.
Explore researchHybrid AI research
AI-driven data gathering paired with careful human analysis.
Explore research
Peter Spinda
Bruce Coudrey
Jo-Anne Wilson
Andrew Yoannidis
Paula BurgessClient stories
See all client storiesSome of our client work
Manufacturing · Value building and exit planningA business less dependent on its owner.ObservedOwner moved from production to strategy
Education and training · Digital transformationNew ways to deliver. More room to grow.Measured3 months to move from face-to-face to online
Accommodation · Sale preparationOrganised for sale. Ready for the next chapter.MeasuredTarget price achieved at sale
Work with Chris
Book a free 20-minute call with Chris
Tell us a little about your business and Chris will call you to talk through your priorities. No cost and no obligation.
1A free 20-minute call with Chris
2An honest view of where we could help
3If it’s a fit, a program matched to your priorities
Rather talk now? Call 1300 366 521
