Head of Research & Policy

The Chartered Association of Business Schools (Chartered ABS) is the voice of the UK’s business and management education sector. We represent and support business schools across the UK, championing their role in driving economic growth, productivity, innovation and leadership development.

Working with policymakers, industry and higher education leaders, we help shape the policy environment that enables business schools to thrive and continue delivering world-class teaching, research and enterprise engagement.

We are now seeking an outstanding Head of Research & Policy to lead our research function and shape evidence-based policy insight that informs our advocacy and supports our members and the sector.

This is a high-impact senior role at the heart of the organisation. Reporting to the Deputy CEO and Director of External Relations, you will lead the Chartered ABS research and policy function, delivering high-quality analysis and insight that underpins our thought leadership and engagement with government, stakeholders and the media.

You will oversee a portfolio of research projects that provide sector intelligence and benchmarking for our members, while monitoring developments in higher education policy and translating complex evidence into clear and compelling insights.

A key responsibility will be the project management of the Academic Journal Guide, a globally recognised resource used by business and management academics. You will work closely with editors, methodologists and publishers to deliver each edition and support the continued development of this influential publication.

You will also engage directly with senior stakeholders across the business school community, presenting research findings, shaping policy discussions and representing the organisation in sector forums. The role includes line management responsibility for a Research Officer, supporting their development while ensuring the effective delivery of the research programme.

• Lead the Chartered ABS research programme, producing high-quality reports and analysis for members, policymakers and stakeholders
• Analyse higher education datasets (including HESA and NSS) to inform sector insight and policy positions
• Design and deliver surveys, including the Annual Membership Survey and regular Pulse Surveys
• Monitor policy developments and contribute to consultation responses and advocacy activity
• Present research findings to senior audiences across the higher education and policy communities
• Project manage the Academic Journal Guide, coordinating with editors, publishers and committees
• Act as executive lead for the Chartered ABS Research and International Committees
• Line manage and support the development of the Research Officer

You will be an experienced research or policy professional with strong analytical capability and the confidence to engage with senior stakeholders. You will bring:

• Experience leading research, policy or data analysis functions
• Excellent quantitative and qualitative research skills, including survey design
• Strong data analysis capabilities and the ability to interpret trends and evidence
• Experience producing research publications and policy briefings for diverse audiences
• A track record of presenting findings to senior stakeholders, policymakers or sector leaders
• Experience managing complex projects and working collaboratively with partners
• Experience line managing and developing staff
• Knowledge of the UK higher education and policy landscape is essential. Experience working with HESA data, Tableau or Power BI, or within a membership organisation, professional body or higher education institution would be advantageous.

Above all, you will be intellectually curious, collaborative and motivated to produce research that delivers meaningful impact for the sector.

We offer a collaborative and supportive working environment guided by our core values of Community Building, Agile Expertise, Authentic Accountability and Purposeful Impact. Our benefits include:

• Hybrid working (minimum two days per week in our central London office)
• 31 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Attractive employer non-contributory pension
• Life assurance and wellbeing support
• Season ticket loans, cycle-to-work scheme and eye care support

All applicants must have the right to work in the UK as we are unable to sponsor work visas. To apply successfully, please submit:

• A CV, and
• A covering letter (maximum one page) explaining how you meet the role requirements.

Applications should be sent to: PeopleHR via the button below. Closing date: 31 March 2026.

The Chartered Association of Business Schools is an equal opportunities employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and abilities and will provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process where required.