Research Manager at Plan International

The Opportunity 

As the Research Manager you will lead, deliver and support high quality research on Plan International’s focus areas set in terms of the new Global Strategy to 2022, in collaboration with research team members, MER Specialists from the 75+ Programme Countries, as well as external consultants. 

You will, in consultation with the Director of MERL and the Head of Research, plan, manage and undertake global research needed in support of the development of guidelines, policy and position papers, programme development and organisational learning; publish in respected journals to inform and improve Plan’s programmes; and use research from across the organisation to increase Plan’s organisational learning and thought leadership in its focus areas. 

The Individual 

• With demonstrable experience in quantitative research methods, statistical analysis, designing survey tools and in the use and application of data analysis software 
• A good understanding of international development issues and experience of working in international development. 
• Good project management skills, able to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work to tight deadline 
• Excellent interpersonal skills, working with people from different cultures and in different time zones, with integrity and honesty; experience working in a multi-cultural environment 
• Understanding and commitment to the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women.  
• As well as demonstrable experience in research ethics and data collection with children and vulnerable people 
• Fluent in English; excellent English writing skills, for both research and communication purposes. 

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE, SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

Essential

• Masters level or equivalent, preferably in research methods, development studies or a related subject.
• A good understanding of international development issues, preferable experience of working in international development.
• Significant experience of quantitative research methods within a mixed methods background
• Knowledge of research operations, principles, practices and processes.
• Experienced in the use and application of data analysis software i.e. STATA, Nvivo and reporting tools to develop standard and ad hoc reports.
• Strong influencing and stakeholder management skills.
• Must be adaptable and able to work independently on multiple tasks, prioritise workload effectively and meet deadlines in a fast paced environment.
• Strong analytical skills and robust problem solving skills.
• Attention to detail; accurate and observant.
• Ability to work within a multi-cultural environment and find creative solutions for successful regional and national knowledge management initiatives to promote learning and information sharing across the organisation
• Good project management skills and constructive flexibility
• Ability to make connections and build relationships within Plan and externally
• Fluent in English with strong verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills.

Desirable

• Spanish and/or French verbal and written communication skills is an advantage