Executive Director - Social Policy (ED-SP)

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 190 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 role is pivotal to enhancing RAND Europe\''s mission by providing strategic leadership and oversight to the Education, Employment and Skills (EES), Health and Care (HC), and Science and Emerging Technology (SET) research teams. The incumbent will drive the development and execution of innovative research strategies that support broader organisational goals, while maintaining high performance and quality in all research outputs. As an essential member of the Executive Board, the Executive Director will enhance RAND Europe\''s profile in social policy domains, ensure adherence to company policies, and actively shape the overall organisational strategy. Additionally, the role includes fiduciary duties for RAND Europe\''s Brussels entity (AISBL), oversight of the European Institutions portfolio, and professional education and learning offerings, ensuring lasting organisational impact.Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and ManagementContribute to the overall RAND Europe strategy and business planning process, ensuring that social policy initiatives are represented and prioritisedActively engage in executive-level decision-making and serve as a deputy for the President in key organisational discussions and meetingsSocial Policy Research Group LeadershipResearch Group Performance and Capacity ManagementMonitor and support the performance of the EES, HC, and SET teams, ensuring adherence to high standards of quality, timeliness, and budgetary complianceGuide the research teams in achieving and exceeding their financial, operational, and strategic goals, ensuring continued alignment with RAND Europe\''s mission and valuesEvaluate and coordinate the research pipeline, ensuring effective resource allocation and optimal project delivery across the teamsIdentify staffing needs and collaborate with the HR department to recruit, train, and retain top talent in the field of social policyBusiness Development and Research DeliveryIdentify and pursue new business development opportunities that align with the strengths of the research teams and facilitate organisational growthLead efforts to deliver research projects on time, within budget, and according to quality standards, enhancing the credibility and impact of RAND Europe\''s work in social policyOversee the shaping and development of research proposals that fit within the organisational commercial framework and meet client needsTeam Development and LeadershipFoster a high-performance culture through effective mentorship and leadership of Research Group Directors and staff within the EES, HC, and SET teamsSupport staff in achieving professional growth and excel in research delivery, encouraging innovation and creative approachesPromote collaboration amongst teams, aligning efforts to ensure cohesive outcomes in social policy research initiativesCorporate Strategic InitiativesPlay a key leadership role in expanding RAND Europe\''s impact through research, analysis, and advisory servicesServe as the RAND Europe executive owner in developing and implementing professional education and training offeringsLead or oversee strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the organisation\''s reach and effectiveness as neededEuropean Union Institutions (EUI) Portfolio OversightProvide strategic oversight and guidance to the Brussels Office Director and research group leadership to expand and deliver RAND Europe\''s research activities for the European Union Institutions (Commission, Parliament, and Council Agencies)Collaborate with Brussels Office Director to develop and implement business plans for the EUI research portfolioProvide advice to Chief Executive on future directions from investment and growth within the EUI portfolioOrganisational Impact and ProfileElevate RAND Europe\''s profile in social policy through impactful research, strategic engagement with stakeholders, and participation in public discourse on relevant issuesLeverage a wide network of contacts to enhance the visibility and influence of RAND Europe\''s contributions to social policyActively involve in corporate reporting and management information processes to keep the Executive Board informed about research progress and research group performanceAdministrative and Compliance DutiesEnsure compliance with all company policies, governance frameworks, and RAND Europe Management Systems throughout the research teamsPerform any ad hoc duties as required to support the overall strategic objectives of RAND EuropeRequirementsProven track record of strategic leadership in research, professional services, or public sector environmentsExperience managing multiple research teams and ensuring high-performance outcomes and quality standards across diverse research portfoliosFamiliarity with social policy research and analysis, with a strong grounding in business development and client engagementExcellent communication skills, including public presentation and the ability to produce written materials for a range of stakeholders, from policymakers to the general publicStrong prioritisation, problem-solving, and interpersonal skillsQualificationsPost graduate degree or equivalentBenefits
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 awardsHow to Apply
If you believe you are suited to the above role, please submit an application comprising of a CV and covering letter. The deadline for applications is 16 June 2025. First stage interviews are planned for the 26th and 27th June, with 2nd stage interviews planned week commencing 7th July.If you have not been contacted within 30 days of application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Other jobs of interest...
Perform a fresh search...
-
Create your ideal job search criteria by
completing our quick and simple form and
receive daily job alerts tailored to you!