Research Group Director - Education, Employment & Skills

RAND Europe is an independent, not-for-profit research organisation whose mission is to help improve policy and decision-making through rigorous and independent research and analysis. We benefit the public interest through the impact and wide dissemination of over 200 projects per year. Our work at its most impactful changes policy, practice and process to the benefit of the public good. That is also our organisational mission.

RAND Europe has approximately 180 staff across offices in Cambridge, Brussels, and the Netherlands. Our staff represents 22 nationalities, speaks over 20 languages and covers 31 academic disciplines. Our multi- and inter-disciplinary approaches to research generate unique perspectives and insights for our wide-ranging government, foundation and other NGO clients.

RAND Europe’s research is rigorously peer-reviewed, draws on extensive subject and methodological expertise, and is conducted in a professional, delivery-oriented environment.

This strategic leadership role involves steering the Employment, Education and Skills research group to meet and exceed financial and operational goals, while managing a budget. This research group undertakes large evaluations of workplace, employment, education and targeted interventions (e.g. towards youth), provides general research and thought leadership in these areas, and works across several geographies to provide these services. Our aim is to bring evidence to policy-making and decision-makers. Our funders are public sector bodies, international organisations, research councils, foundations, and private sector funders interested in the public good. The RGD will be responsible for developing and executing business plans, enhancing the group’s research capabilities, driving business development, and fostering a high-performance culture. As a key member of the Executive Board, the RGD will also elevate the group and RAND Europe’s profile, ensure compliance with company policies, and contribute to the broader organisational strategy and operations.

Key responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Management

• Direct the Education, Employment and Skills research group at RAND Europe, managing a team of around 25 FTEs.
• Achieve and exceed the annual revenue target of £3.0m.
• Develop and execute strategic business plans to meet group objectives and align with broader organisational goals.
• Act as a key member of the RAND Europe Executive Board, contributing to overarching strategy and decision-making.

Research Group Performance and Capacity Management

• Oversee the research group’s capacity to deliver on organisational objectives and maintain high research quality.
• Coordinate and optimise the research pipeline, ensuring effective allocation of resources and timely project execution.
• Identify staffing needs and work with the HR team to recruit and retain top talent.

Business Development and Research Delivery

• Identify and seize new business development opportunities to drive growth, achieve revenue targets and drive impact.
• Ensure the delivery of research projects within agreed timeframes, budgets, and quality standards.
• Develop and shape research proposals to fit within the organisational commercial framework.

Staff Development and Leadership

• Manage performance, mentor, and develop group staff to foster a high-performance culture and professional growth.
• Lead the team with a focus on achieving excellence and driving innovation in research.
• Oversee the successful development, winning, and delivery of research projects, showcasing thought leadership in specific areas.
• Successfully navigate the group through a major restructuring initiative.

Organisational Impact and Profile

• Enhance the impact of RAND Europe’s research through an extensive network of contacts and stakeholders.
• Elevate the profile of RAND Europe and the research group, promoting its contributions and achievements.
• Engage with a diverse client base across various geographies to ensure broad reach and influence.

Administrative and Compliance Duties

• Contribute to internal corporate reporting and management information, providing accurate and timely updates.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies and RAND Europe Management Systems.
• Perform ad hoc duties as required to support the organisation’s strategic objectives.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in leadership and business delivery within research, professional services, or public sector domains.
• Proven track record of working as part of a senior leadership team and managing teams, with experience in team leadership and staff management.
• Expertise in policy-relevant research and analysis, with a solid background in portfolio management of research activities.
• Demonstrated ability in business development and client management, with strong skills in identifying and capitalising on new opportunities.
• Effective public presentation skills and experience producing written outputs for diverse audiences, including policymakers.
• Strong prioritisation and problem-solving abilities, coupled with excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in intermediate Excel and Word, with a capability to manage and analyse data effectively.
• Basic financial understanding and commercial awareness.
• Awareness of the markets in which RAND operates.
• Post graduate degree or equivalent.

Benefits

• Pension - 8% Employer contribution;
• 33 days holiday allowance, including the Bank Holidays;
• Annual salary review;
• BUPA medical insurance;
• Generous company sick pay;
• Enhanced family friendly policies;
• Group income protection scheme;
• Group life assurance;
• Compassionate leave;
• Flexible working arrangements;
• Learning and development opportunities;
• Employee wellbeing training and support;
• Fresh fruit every day;
• Free on-site parking;
• Cycle to work scheme;
• Access to company bikes;
• Service awards.

How to Apply

If you believe you are suited to the above role, please submit an application comprising of a CV and covering letter below.

If you have not been contacted within 30 days of application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.