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.
Key responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Management
* Contribute to the overall RAND Europe strategy and business planning process, ensuring that social policy initiatives are represented and prioritised.
* Actively engage in executive-level decision-making and serve as a deputy for the President in key organisational discussions and meetings.
Social Policy Research Group Leadership
Research Group Performance and Capacity Management
* Monitor and support the performance of the EES, HC, and SET teams, ensuring adherence to high standards of quality, timeliness, and budgetary compliance.
* Guide the research teams in achieving and exceeding their financial, operational, and strategic goals, ensuring continued alignment with RAND Europe’s mission and values.
* Evaluate and coordinate the research pipeline, ensuring effective resource allocation and optimal project delivery across the teams.
* Identify staffing needs and collaborate with the HR department to recruit, train, and retain top talent in the field of social policy.
Business Development and Research Delivery
* Identify and pursue new business development opportunities that align with the strengths of the research teams and facilitate organisational growth.
* Lead 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 policy.
* Oversee the shaping and development of research proposals that fit within the organisational commercial framework and meet client needs.
Team Development and Leadership
* Foster a high-performance culture through effective mentorship and leadership of Research Group Directors and staff within the EES, HC, and SET teams.
* Support staff in achieving professional growth and excel in research delivery, encouraging innovation and creative approaches.
* Promote collaboration amongst teams, aligning efforts to ensure cohesive outcomes in social policy research initiatives.
Corporate Strategic Initiatives
* Play a key leadership role in expanding RAND Europe’s impact through research, analysis, and advisory services.
* Serve as the RAND Europe executive owner in developing and implementing professional education and training offerings.
* Lead or oversee strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the organisations reach and effectiveness as needed.
European Union Institutions (EUI) Portfolio Oversight
* Provide 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 portfolio.
* Provide advice to Chief Executive on future directions from investment and growth within the EUI portfolio.
Organisational Impact and Profile
* Elevate RAND Europe’s profile in social policy through impactful research, strategic engagement with stakeholders, and participation in public discourse on relevant issues.
* Leverage a wide network of contacts to enhance the visibility and influence of RAND Europe’s contributions to social policy.
* Actively involve in corporate reporting and management information processes to keep the Executive Board informed about research progress and research group performance.
Administrative and Compliance Duties
* Ensure compliance with all company policies, governance frameworks, and RAND Europe Management Systems throughout the research teams.
* Perform any ad hoc duties as required to support the overall strategic objectives of RAND Europe.
* Proven track record of strategic leadership in research, professional services, or public sector environments.
* Experience managing multiple research teams and ensuring high-performance outcomes and quality standards across diverse research portfolios.
* Familiarity with social policy research and analysis, with a strong grounding in business development and client engagement.
* Excellent communication skills, including public presentation and the ability to produce written materials for a range of stakeholders, from policymakers to the general public.
* Strong prioritisation, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
Qualifications
* Post graduate degree or equivalent
* 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.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.
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