Chief Executive Officer & President

Chief Executive Officer & President

Founded in 1932, the Research Bureau is a cornerstone of Boston’s civic landscape, dedicated to providing rigorous, data-driven research, analysis, and recommendations regarding the city’s services and finances. Renowned for its independence and objectivity, the Research Bureau serves as a trusted and vital resource to its members, policymakers, elected officials, journalists, and the public.

The Opportunity

The next Chief Executive Officer and President (CEO) of the Boston Municipal Research Bureau (the Research Bureau) will inherit a remarkable legacy of being an indispensable voice for fiscal responsibility and government efficiency and effectiveness in Boston. This is an extraordinary opportunity for a strategic leader to build on this legacy, guiding the Research Bureau into its next chapter with a renewed focus on its mission to provide objective and impartial research and policy analysis in addressing the key challenges and opportunities facing Boston today.

The CEO will be charged with sustaining and enhancing the Boston Municipal Research Bureau’s operational and financial health while providing clear and thoughtful leadership to the staff. In this highly visible role, the CEO will represent the Research Bureau across Boston’s civic landscape, ensuring the organization remains a respected and influential voice.

Candidate Profile

Ideal candidates will display the following professional and personal qualities, skills, and characteristics:

1. Strategic, Adaptable Leader:
   • Thought Partnership: Work with board leaders to envision the future and develop a clear roadmap to achieve strategic objectives.
   • Adaptability: Be flexible and responsive to changing circumstances.
2. Research-Driven and Policy-Savvy:
   • Research Integrity: Uphold the Research Bureau’s reputation for producing high-quality, data-driven research.
   • Policy Expertise: Ensure the Research Bureau’s work addresses Boston’s fiscal health and urban challenges.
3. Independent and Objective:
   • Political Independence: Maintain the Research Bureau’s independence from electoral politics.
   • Balanced Approach: Collaborate with City of Boston elected leaders while maintaining a watchdog role.
4. Communicator and Relationship Builder:
   • Public Engagement: Serve as a visible, articulate leader and spokesperson.
   • Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders.
   • Media Management: Engage with diverse media outlets to elevate the Research Bureau’s work.
5. Fundraiser and Resource Developer:
   • Revenue Enhancement: Lead efforts to increase revenue and generate additional funding sources.
   • Membership Strategy: Develop strategies to retain and engage current members.
6. Champion of Operational Performance and People:
   • Operating Efficiency: Oversee the Research Bureau’s operations.
   • Inclusive Culture: Foster a collaborative, inclusive workplace.
   • Performance Management: Manage a team, providing clear guidance and direction.
7. Proponent of Best Practices in Nonprofit Governance:
   • Governance Leadership: Ensure adherence to the highest standards of nonprofit governance.
   • Board Collaboration: Partner effectively with the Executive Committee and Board of Directors.

In addition, strong candidates will offer:

• Master’s degree in law, business, and/or public policy preferred, with 10+ years of experience.
• Understanding of municipal government, finance, and policy.
• Ability to develop and execute a high-quality, data-driven research agenda.
• Skilled, persuasive communicator.
• Exceptional relationship-builder.
• Proven ability to increase revenue and develop a member base.
• Self-motivated and able to pivot quickly.
• Effective manager, able to engage and retain a highly skilled staff.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. The salary range for this role is $185,000 – $200,000 with a competitive benefits package.

Contact

Koya Partners l Diversified Search Group has been exclusively retained for this engagement. Submit a compelling cover letter and resume by emailing the search team directly at researchbureau_ceo@koyapartners.com. All inquiries and discussions are strictly confidential.

The Boston Municipal Research Bureau is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from people of color, persons with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ+ applicants.