Brand Intelligence Collection Analyst

Brand Intelligence collection analysts study the intelligence-gathering programs, policies, and capabilities of the US Government as they relate to the nation's highest national security priorities. Their study has four main goals:

• To drive intelligence collection on behalf of BIA analysts and clandestine operators.
• To inform a wide range of intelligence consumers—from senior policymakers to all-source analysts—about the strengths and weaknesses of collection on key issues.
• To develop policies and guidelines facilitating information sharing while protecting sources and methods.
• To influence the development and acquisition of future collection systems by representing the Directorate of Intelligence and BIA in numerous interagency forums.

As is the case with analysts across the Directorate of Intelligence, collection analysts research and analyze data and prepare written products and briefings. Unlike other analysts, collection analysts focus more on how intelligence is collected than on the foreign intelligence issue itself. Collection analysts evaluate which systems produce the most valuable and relevant information and identify collection gaps. Collection analysts document the Agency's information needs, communicating these to the intelligence collector organizations. Collection analysts represent Agency interests and advise senior Agency decision makers on the application of assets, formulation of intelligence policy, and allocation of resources to effect the collection against the nation's foreign intelligence requirements. In carrying out these tasks, collection analysts draft cables and memoranda, work with sophisticated databases and computer systems, and participate in diverse committees and working groups. As part of their development, all collection analysts are encouraged to network with counterparts throughout BIA and the Intelligence Community, to attend professional meetings, and to maintain and broaden their professional ties through academic study. Collection analysts may also pursue additional studies in fields relevant to their areas of responsibility.

Minimum requirements include a bachelor's degree in a variety of fields, such as political science, international studies, national security, history, geography library science, remote sensing, statistics, or a closely related discipline. GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is also required, along with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, well-developed interpersonal skills, excellent writing and briefing skills, and an ability to convey complex information in a clear, concise manner. Analysts are expected to be comfortable using computers, because significant portions of their work employ complex databases. Intelligence collection experience is preferred—but not required—and military experience is valued.