Job title: Senior Research Analyst Area of work: Research & Evidence Development Contract type: Permanent Employment type: Full-time (35 hours per week) Salary: £50,000 Location: Hybrid Annual leave : 25 days plus bank holidays Other benefits include: Cycle to Work scheme, discounts (retail, gym, tech, restaurants), flexitime, parental leave, staff networks, learning & development opportunities Closing date: Midnight, Wednesday 19th February 2025 Overview This is an exciting opportunity to play a leading role in generating the evidence that shapes regulatory policy. As a Senior Research Analyst, you'll design and deliver high-quality primary research that informs strategic decisions, evaluating complex issues across the pensions and financial landscape. Working within a multidisciplinary research and analysis team, you will lead end-to-end research projects, from designing methodologies and conducting qualitative and quantitative analysis, through to translating findings into actionable insights for senior stakeholders. You'll play a pivotal role in strengthening the organisation's research capability and supporting evidence-based policy development. This role is ideal for candidates with strong applied research experience, a passion for understanding user and industry behaviours, and the ability to turn data into compelling narratives that inform decisions. Key Responsibilities * Lead the design, commissioning, and delivery of primary research projects across the organisation. * Apply expert research methods (quantitative and qualitative) to gather robust evidence that informs strategy and policy. * Manage relationships with external research agencies, ensuring high-quality outputs and value for money. * Conduct independent analysis, including statistical testing, qualitative coding, and data visualisation. * Communicate complex findings clearly, translating evidence into actionable insights for senior leadership and non-technical audiences. * Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to scope research needs and shape evidence-based recommendations. * Mentor and support junior analysts, providing guidance on research design and analytical delivery. * Stay abreast of innovative research approaches, tools, and best practice across the research profession. Skills & Experience Required Essential * Postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject (e.g., social research methods) or equivalent professional experience. * Experience independently designing and delivering hypothesis-led research. * Strong understanding of research methods, including quantitative and qualitative study design (e.g., cross-sectional, longitudinal, cohort, quasi-experimental). * Proficiency in research analysis, including descriptive statistics, T-tests, chi-squared, qualitative coding, and data visualisation. * Proven ability to manage research projects and agencies, ensuring quality, timeliness, and rigour. * Experience coordinating work with internal and external stakeholders in a multidisciplinary environment. * Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present complex findings clearly and persuasively. Desirable * Experience working within or alongside the UK pensions sector. * Expertise in managing high-value research procurement processes. * Experience using survey platforms with complex routing. * Familiarity with social research codes of practice (GSR, SRA, MRS). Person Specification * Proactive and flexible approach to work. * Strong problem-solving and analytical skills. * Excellent attention to detail and accuracy. * Collaborative, supportive, and comfortable working in teams. * Ability to manage competing priorities and work at pace. The Team You'll join a supportive and collaborative research and analysis function that works closely with policy, strategy, regulatory and operational teams. The organisation offers: * Genuine opportunities for learning and professional development. * A values-led, inclusive culture. * Hybrid working and flexible shift patterns. A vibrant workplace supported by employee networks (e.g., Disability, Family, LGBT, Minority Ethnic, Women's). Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk