Head of Research & Policy

The Head of Research and Policy is a key role within the Trust, overseeing its programme of policy-focused research on social mobility and educational inequalities. The Trust has published over 300 pieces of research since 1997, including many highly influential reports which have achieved widespread media coverage and attention among policy makers. This is an exciting opportunity to play a meaningful part in effecting change for disadvantaged young people, in a rapidly evolving policy landscape

The role sits within our integrated Communications, Research and Policy team, where we see communications and advocacy working hand in hand with generating robust evidence. As Head you will oversee a small research team producing original research internally, as well as commissioning work from external researchers and organisations. You will develop proposals and design research projects, as well as recommendations for policy and practice.

We are looking for someone with a deep interest in issues of educational equity, social mobility and increasing opportunity. You will combine a commitment to methodologically robust research with a passion for clear, impactful communication of findings and an eye for practical learnings.

Main duties

Research:

• Leading the Trust’s portfolio of research, with the Director of Research and Policy, ensuring a regular and varied programme of policy-relevant research, including responsibility for its quality and accuracy.
• Overseeing colleagues and external organisations responsible for individual reports.
• Ensuring that Sutton Trust reports are accessible to practitioners and policy makers; editing and preparing reports for publication.
• Developing new ideas for research in consultation with the Director, as well as other Sutton Trust colleagues and external stakeholders.
• Authoring one or more original data-rich research reports each year, where appropriate
• Managing the day-to-day work of two Research and Policy Managers, including pastoral support. Management of other team members as appropriate, and recruitment where relevant.
• Working with the Development team to identify possible funders and develop fundraising proposals and secure funding for the team’s work.
• Management of the research budget, ensuring value for money.

Policy and impact:

• Working with the Director of Research and Policy and colleagues, as well as external experts, to develop credible recommendations and policy proposals that help advance the Trust’s social mobility agenda.
• Working with Communications and Public Affairs team members to develop messaging and content for disseminating and publicising the Trust’s research findings and policy recommendations.
• Working with the Head of Communications and Public Affairs and other colleagues to support the advocacy work of the Trust, including responding to government consultations.
• Undertaking advocacy work, as required, with MPs’ staff, civil servants, special advisers and other policy makers.
• Representing the Trust externally at events, conferences, and with donors and other supporters, as well as through news media – both broadcast appearances and thought leadership articles.
• Working with colleagues in the Programmes team to ensure exchange of knowledge and expertise across teams

Other:

• Reporting to the Senior Leadership Team and Trustee Board, where required.
• Other duties as necessary from time to time.