Director of Evidence & Impact

Homelessness Impact; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Centre for Homelessness Impact is seeking a dynamic Director of Evidence to lead the growth of our evidence work in the UK. You will shape the evidence strategy, oversee evaluations (including randomised trials), synthesize insights, and translate findings into policy and service design opportunities.

You will manage a growing portfolio, partner with researchers and policymakers, and drive innovation while supporting a strong implementation culture in a fast-changing homelessness sector.

Qualifications

• An evidence expert: deep knowledge of research methodologies, evidence synthesis, and evaluation techniques in the social sciences, with homelessness or related fields.
• An experienced commissioner: experience as a commissioner of high-quality evaluations, from briefing to tendering, commissioning, milestone quality assurance, and timely delivery.
• A strategic thinker: identifies key research questions, designs and oversees impactful projects, and translates findings into policy and practice.
• A collaborative leader: effectively leads multi-disciplinary teams, builds partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, and fosters innovation.
• An effective communicator: clearly communicates complex evidence findings to policymakers, practitioners, and the public.

Responsibilities

• Develop and shape the Centre’s evidence strategy and approach to understanding what works in homelessness.
• Design, scope, and oversee evaluations (including RCTs), systematic reviews, and research projects to address user needs.
• Oversee and quality-assure the portfolio of evaluations and research projects, providing timely input to colleagues and partners.
• Balance rigour of evaluation with practical delivery in collaboration with the programmes team.
• Identify opportunities for new research and support funding to expand the portfolio.
• Synthesize findings into actionable insights for research, service, or product design.
• Update evidence tools and resources in partnership with the CHI team and stakeholders.
• Translate evidence standards into plain language guidance and contribute to the methods guide.
• Represent the Centre externally through speaking, writing, and other opportunities to promote evidence-informed practice.
• Support implementation work by engaging stakeholders to improve service design and delivery.
• Foster relationships and act as a trusted advisor to national and local government.
• Grow the network of associates, collaborators, and academic partners.
• Collaborate with the CEO and Directors to maximise value of people and resources.
• Support development of team members and utilise the network of associates and partners.

Job description

Centre for Homelessness Impact is seeking a dynamic Director of Evidence to lead the growth of our evidence work in the UK. You will shape the evidence strategy, oversee evaluations (including randomised trials), synthesize insights, and translate findings into policy and service design opportunities.

You will manage a growing portfolio, partner with researchers and policymakers, and drive innovation while supporting a strong implementation culture in a fast-changing homelessness sector.