Research, Monitoring and Evaluation Lead

We believe violence is preventable, not inevitable. Are you driven to support London’s communities? Are you passionate about using data, research and insights to solve complex problems and improve the lives of Londoners? There is a rare but exciting opportunity for a Research, Monitoring and Evaluation Lead to join London’s Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) on a fixed term maternity cover contract.

London’s VRU is focused on stopping violence before it happens through an approach that is rooted in prevention and early intervention. We use research, data and intelligence to better understand why violence occurs and we take action to prevent it now, and in the long‑term. We are a team of specialists who use our expertise to work in partnership with communities, councils, the NHS, public health, the police, schools and colleges and charities, to co‑ordinate efforts and bring about change. The VRU is a voice and champion for young people, families and communities.

We are looking for a Research, Monitoring and Evaluation Lead to drive and develop our approach. This will involve providing expert guidance and advice across programme development, research & evaluation, performance monitoring and evidence‑based commissioning. This is a pivotal role within an exciting and ambitious multi‑disciplinary team, supporting the Head of Research, Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (RMEL) to embed evidence‑informed practice within the unit and wider Violence Reduction field and contribute to our understanding of ‘What Works’ to reduce violence.

The VRU is looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• A proven track record of working within a research and analytic environment as well as building, motivating and inspiring effective teams and holding them to account through rigorous performance management.
• Significant experience of policy development, implementation and research and analysis integrity.
• Exceptional ability to build relationships, influence, communicate and negotiate with stakeholders and partners.
• Extensive research and/or evaluation experience, including the ability to select & direct appropriate methods and approaches.
• Experience in commissioning (e.g., writing research or evaluation specifications, invitations to tender, contract management).
• Excellent project management and prioritisation skills.
• Experience analysing qualitative and quantitative data and presenting complex information to senior stakeholders.
• Knowledge and experience of using evidence and data to identify challenges and improve public services.

The VRU puts a lot of focus on partnership working and building networks across city hall, VCS, local government & the wider civil service. We are therefore open to and would be supportive of any candidates looking for a secondment from their existing role.

Application Process: Candidates must submit their CV and employment history and must answer (using around 1,500 characters per answer) the supplementary questions which are:

• Please outline your leadership experience in the field of performance oversight and/or data insight.
• Please outline your experience of developing and delivering research and evaluation strategies and/or portfolios.
• Please give an example when you were required to build strong relationships and influence key stakeholders to achieve strategic outcomes.
• Please give an example when you have used evidence led approaches to inform strategy and policy development.
• Please outline your experience of public sector commissioning in the context of research and evaluation.

If you have a question about the role or the recruitment process, please contact a member of the HR team via email on HR@mopac.london.gov.uk. If you have a specific question about this role please contact Tom Davies by emailing tom.davies@london.gov.uk.

Application closing date: Sunday, 7 June 2026 - 23:59. Interview date: Week commencing 15 June 2026.