Sania Ahad

Results-driven Business Development and Client Relations professional with a bachelor's degree in international relations and over three years of experience supporting global clients across APAC markets. Proven expertise in lead generation, stakeholder engagement, client relationship management, strategic outreach, and project execution. Experienced in identifying business opportunities, building long-term client relationships, negotiating with senior professionals, and managing high-value accounts in fast-paced international environments.

Strong communicator with a proactive approach to problem-solving, cross-functional collaboration, and driving successful client outcomes.

Associate – APAC at Insights Driven Research (IDR) (2025-07 – 2026-07)

• Led and mentor a team of four analysts, ensuring the successful execution of multiple client projects across APAC markets.
• Managed end-to-end client engagements, serving as the primary point of contact and ensuring exceptional client experience throughout the project lifecycle.
• Conduct qualification and consultation calls with senior industry professionals to align client requirements with suitable experts.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and external stakeholders, ensuring timely delivery and high customer satisfaction.
• Coordinate with international moderators and interpreters across Chinese, Japanese, and Thai markets to deliver seamless research engagements.
• Optimize outreach strategies and internal workflows to improve project efficiency, quality, and client satisfaction.

Assistant Manager Research at GroupM – Essence Mediacom (2025-03 – 2025-07)

• Supported strategic planning for one of Pakistan's largest telecom brands by delivering performance insights and campaign analysis.
• Collaborated with internal stakeholders to optimize media planning decisions using audience and campaign performance data.
• Generated actionable reports that supported client decision-making and improved campaign effectiveness.
• Worked closely with planning teams to ensure timely delivery of client requirements.

Senior Analyst – APAC at Insights Driven Research (IDR) (2024-03 – 2024-08)

• Managed relationships with leading international clients including Ipsos, IQVIA, ThinkPiece, Johnson & Johnson, Novartis, MIMS, and Adience.
• Delivered customized research solutions by understanding client objectives and connecting them with relevant industry experts.
• Improved operational workflows, reducing project turnaround time by 20%.
• Built long-term client relationships that contributed to a 25% improvement in client retention.
• Coordinated multiple concurrent projects while maintaining high service standards and consistent client communication.

Research Analyst – APAC at Insights Driven Research (IDR) (2023-03 – 2024-03)

• Executed targeted lead generation campaigns using LinkedIn Sales Navigator and strategic outreach to identify and engage senior industry professionals across APAC.
• Built qualified expert pipelines by researching decision-makers and conducting personalized outreach campaigns.
• Negotiated engagement terms with senior professionals while maintaining strong long-term relationships.
• Coordinated discovery and consultation calls between clients and subject matter experts, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Supported international clients by identifying suitable experts across healthcare, technology, finance, manufacturing, and consumer sectors.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality client solutions within demanding timelines.

Research Intern at Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (2021-02 – 2021-05)

• Conducted research and produced analytical reports on international affairs and emerging geopolitical developments.
• Supported policy research through data analysis and written briefings.

Assistant Manager Research at GroupM – Essence Mediacom (2019-07 – 2019-08)

• Assisted in preparing diplomatic briefs and international correspondence.
• Supported documentation and coordination for diplomatic engagements.

Bachelor of Science in International Relations – National Defence University (2017-02 – 2021-02)

Higher Secondary School Certificate – Pakistan Urdu School (2014-01 – 2016-12)