Research Manager - Public Affairs (Scotland) in Edinburgh

Are you a curious mixed methods researcher looking to make a real impact on public policy in Scotland? Do you enjoy working across qualitative, quantitative and evaluation projects that influence decisions made by governments, public bodies and communities? If you're ready for a varied and rewarding role within a highly respected social research team, we'd love to hear from you.About the roleJoin our Public Affairs Scotland team as a Research Manager and play a key role in delivering high-profile research and evaluation studies across Scotland's public policy landscape. Working within a collaborative team of 16 researchers and evaluators based in Edinburgh, you'll contribute to projects that directly shape policy, services and public understanding.This is an exciting opportunity for a mixed methods researcher who enjoys variety, intellectual challenge and meaningful work. You'll manage and deliver research and evaluation projects spanning a wide range of policy areas, using methods that range from qualitative and quantitative approaches to deliberative engagement, behavioural research and complex survey design. You'll work on studies that influence important decisions affecting citizens across Scotland, while also helping to develop proposals, strengthen client relationships and contribute to the future growth of the team. Whether your expertise leans more towards qualitative or quantitative research, you'll have opportunities to broaden your skills and develop your career within a supportive and highly experienced environment.About youAn experienced mixed methods researcher with expertise in qualitative, quantitative or both research approachesPassionate about research that informs policy, services and public understandingComfortable discussing and advising on both qualitative and quantitative methodologies with clientsExperienced in managing multiple projects and competing priorities effectivelyStrong communicator who can build trusted relationships with colleagues and clientsCurious, analytical and motivated to solve complex research questionsCollaborative team player who enjoys contributing to business planning and team successEnthusiastic about adopting and using AI tools and emerging technologies to enhance research quality, efficiency and innovationKeen to continue developing your research, evaluation and consultancy skillsEssential skillsExperience managing social research projects from design through to deliveryStrong qualitative and/or quantitative research skillsAbility to select and apply appropriate research methodologies to meet client objectivesExperience analysing data and translating findings into clear, actionable insightsExcellent report writing and presentation skillsStrong stakeholder and client management capabilitiesCommercial awareness and experience contributing to proposals or business development activitiesExcellent organisational and project management skillsProficiency in using AI-enabled tools and digital technologies to support research delivery and efficiencyDesirable skillsExperience delivering research within public affairs, public policy or social research settingsEvaluation research experienceKnowledge of Scottish public policy, government or public sector issuesExperience with deliberative research methods, behavioural research or complex survey designExperience managing large-scale or multi-year research programmesBusiness development and client growth experienceAdvanced quantitative analysis skillsExperience mentoring or supporting junior researchersBenefitsWe offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you as an individual. Our standard benefits include 25 days annual leave, pension contribution, income protection and life assurance. In addition, there are a range health & wellbeing, financial benefits and professional development opportunities.We have a hybrid approach to work and ask people to be in the office or with clients for 3 days per week. We appreciate you may have commitments outside of work and will consider flexible working applications - please highlight what you are looking for when you make your application.We are committed to equality, treating people fairly, promoting a positive and inclusive working environment and ensuring we have diversity of people and views. We recognise that this is important for our business success - a more diverse workforce will enable us to better reflect and understand the world we research and ultimately deliver better research and insight to our clients. We are proud to be a member of the Disability Confident scheme, certified as a Level 2 Disability Confident Employer. We provide an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. Your application will be reviewed by someone from our Talent Team who will be in touch either way to let you know the outcome.Ready to have an impact? Apply now!Ipsos is one of the world’s largest research companies and currently the only one primarily managed by researchers, ranking as a #1 full-service research organization for four consecutive years. With over 75 different data-driven solutions, and presence in 90 markets, Ipsos brings together research, implementation, methodological, and subject-matter experts from around the world, combining thematic and technical experts to deliver top-quality research and insights. Simply speaking, we help the biggest companies solve some of their biggest problems, serving more than 5000 clients across the globe by providing research, data, and insights on their target markets. And we are proud of our continuous efforts in making Ipsos the best place to work!The Public Affairs Service Line is the world leader in Social and Opinion Research. We work with clients on political and public opinion polling, citizen and stakeholder management, social policy improvement, sustainable development strategy and identifying societal trends and perceptions across several sectors. We assess how government and public affairs policies as well as societal trends and views impact our client’s brand/products/markets.Posting Date: 2026-09-01