Associate Director - Employment, Welfare & Skills

TN United Kingdom; Manchester; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in social research is seeking an experienced researcher to lead high-profile studies for key public sector clients. This exciting role involves managing research projects, developing client relationships, and contributing to business growth. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in social policy research and evaluation, with proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative methods. Join a dynamic team that values diversity and offers extensive learning opportunities, while enjoying a competitive salary and flexible benefits.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Pension scheme

Private healthcare for senior roles

Flexible benefits

Learning & Development opportunities

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing research and evaluation projects from start to finish.
• Ability to analyze complex data and present clear insights.

Responsibilities

• Leading proposals and revenue generation, including pricing recommendations.
• Managing contracts with UK government departments.
• Delivering research projects from design to recommendations.

Skills

Research Management

Qualitative Research Methods

Quantitative Research Methods

Client Relationship Management

Proposal Writing

Data Analysis

Negotiation Skills

Project Management

Job description

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Client:

Ipsos

Location:

Manchester, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Reference:

f4313fb76489

Job Views:

3

Posted:

05.05.2025

Expiry Date:

19.06.2025

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Job Description:

The Role…

Ipsos UK Public Affairs is a leader in social research. This role involves working within the Employment, Welfare & Skills team. Our clients include major government departments such as HMRC, DWP, DfE, DCMS, and MaPS.

Recent studies include assessing changes to Universal Credit, public perceptions for Pensions Dashboards, experiences with Tax Free Childcare, and evaluations of DWP employment programs.

What will I be doing?

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced researcher or evaluator to lead high-profile studies for key public sector clients, contribute to business growth, and develop the team.

We seek someone with strong social policy research and evaluation experience, especially in relevant policy areas.

The main responsibilities include:

• Leading proposals and revenue generation, including pricing recommendations.
• Managing contracts with UK government departments.
• Leading studies and maintaining client relationships.
• Delivering research projects from design to recommendations.
• Communicating effectively with clients, stakeholders, and colleagues.
• Supporting junior team members’ development.
• Signing off on deliverables that meet client objectives, applying creative approaches when appropriate.
• Managing relationships with suppliers and internal teams.
• Understanding client needs and identifying growth opportunities.
• Contributing to a positive team environment encouraging skill development.
• Collaborating with senior management on strategic and operational matters.

What do I need to bring with me?

This role suits candidates who enjoy client interaction and working at a fast pace. We welcome applicants from research or evaluation backgrounds with relevant policy experience.

Requirements include:

• Proven experience managing research and evaluation projects from start to finish.
• Proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Experience in writing proposals and delivering projects in Employment, Welfare, and Skills policy areas.
• Desire to develop client relationships.
• Ability to lead multiple projects and support junior staff.
• Understanding of research and evaluation methods.
• Ability to meet tight deadlines while maintaining quality.
• Skill in developing high-quality materials aligned with client objectives.
• Ability to analyze complex data and present clear insights.
• Strong client handling and negotiation skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

What is in it for me?

Ipsos UK offers a competitive salary, 25 days annual leave, a pension scheme, and flexible benefits. For roles at Research Manager level and above, private healthcare is included.

We also provide extensive Learning & Development opportunities through various formats. We support flexible working arrangements; please specify your needs in your application.

Ipsos values diversity and promotes an inclusive environment, believing that diverse teams enhance research quality and business success.