Head of Research - Strategy and Policy

Piermont Search; Abu Dhabi Emirate; On-site; AED 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in Abu Dhabi is seeking a visionary Head of Research to drive strategic initiatives at the intersection of public policy and research innovation. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the R&D ecosystem in the UAE, collaborating with top institutions and influencing national research priorities. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in management consulting or policy advisory roles, with a strong focus on stakeholder engagement and team leadership. Join a collaborative environment where your contributions will significantly impact the future of research and innovation.

Benefits

Influence national research strategy

Exposure to high-profile stakeholders

Collaborative environment

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in management consulting or strategic leadership.
• Proven track record in leading complex, multi-stakeholder projects.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a strategic partner on research and commercialization matters.
• Oversee a team delivering high-impact research and policy outputs.

Skills

Management Consulting

Policy Advisory

Strategic Leadership

Problem-Solving

Communication Skills

Stakeholder Negotiation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Economics

MBA or related graduate degree

Job description

Direct message the job poster from Piermont Search

A prominent government-affiliated entity in Abu Dhabi is seeking a highly accomplished and visionary Head of Research to lead strategic research initiatives.

This role presents a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of public policy and research innovation, partnering closely with leading institutions, shaping the future of the R&D ecosystem in the UAE.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a senior strategic partner to leadership on matters related to research and commercialization.
• Shape and align national and local research priorities with institutional strategies.
• Lead governance and analytical processes for research centers, including evaluation, renewal, and funding approval.
• Drive commercialization strategy and maximize value derived from intellectual property.
• Foster collaboration across government entities and private sector stakeholders.
• Oversee a team of analysts and managers delivering high-impact research and policy outputs.
• Represent the organization in high-level stakeholder engagements and contribute to nationwide academic and innovation strategies.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• A minimum of 10 years of experience in management consulting, policy advisory, or a strategic leadership role, preferably within higher education, R&D, or innovation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Finance, Public Policy, or related fields; graduate degree such as an MBA, MiM, EMBA, or MPA is preferred.
• Proven track record of leading complex, multi-stakeholder projects and delivering senior-level recommendations.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder negotiation skills.
• Experience working with academic institutions or research bodies is highly desirable.
• Ability to mentor and lead high-performing teams and consultants.

What We Offer

• A chance to influence research and innovation strategy at a national level.
• Exposure to high-profile stakeholders and cutting-edge initiatives.
• A collaborative and intellectually rigorous environment.

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Strategy / Planning and Research
• Strategic Management Services, Public Policy Offices, and Government Administration

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Head Of Head Of • Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates