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

Requirements

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

Qualifications

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.

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Research Group Director - Education, Employment & Skills