Senior Research & Insights Lead - Policy & Participation

Make a difference where it matters most. At Waverley Borough Council, we believe in strong communities, excellent service, and creating a supportive workplace where people can thrive. Whether you're building your career or bringing valuable experience, this is your opportunity to contribute to something meaningful.

About the role: This is an exciting opportunity to lead research, insight and participation work across two ambitious councils at a time of significant change, within our Joint Policy, Strategy and Insights Team. Reporting to the Joint Strategy, Policy and Insight Manager, you will design and deliver high-impact research and insight projects that shape policy, strategy and service design, ensuring decisions are grounded in robust evidence and real resident experience. A key focus of the role is to strengthen participatory democracy and develop innovative approaches that bring the voices of marginalised and seldom-heard communities into policy making. You will also play a leading role in building organisational capability - developing new tools, methods and frameworks that transform how we gather, analyse and use insight. As Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) progresses, you will help ensure decisions are informed by strong evidence and meaningful engagement - shaping West Surrey's future in a way that builds on community strengths, reflects local diversity, and puts people at the heart of decision-making. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys collaborating and driving change at the intersection of research, policy, strategy and community participation - influencing senior leaders, elected members and partners to use evidence and insight to create more equitable, inclusive and responsive public services.

About you: You will be an experienced researcher with a strong track record of leading and managing research and insights projects, with a demonstrable passion for developing inclusive insights that reflect the lived experience of diverse communities. Strong experience in designing, delivering and leading research and insight projects. In-depth knowledge and application of qualitative and quantitative research methods, including ethical research practice. Ability to analyse complex data and evidence and translate this into clear, actionable insights to inform policy and decision-making. Experience of producing high-quality reports, briefings and presentations for a range of audiences, including senior stakeholders. Strong understanding of how research and insight can shape policy, strategy and service design. Experience of engaging effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including senior officers and partners. Ability to work collaboratively across teams and build strong working relationships. Demonstrable commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, including engaging with marginalised or seldom-heard groups. Experience in managing projects (and ideally people), with the ability to prioritise and deliver outcomes to tight deadlines. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and accessibly. Knowledge of the local government context and policy environment. Ability to self-manage, take initiative and drive work forward in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

From April 2027, Guildford Borough Council and Waverley Borough Council will become part of the new West Surrey unitary council, following the government's confirmed plans for local government reorganisation across Surrey. This change will see the current twelve councils replaced by two new authorities, East Surrey and West Surrey, with West Surrey taking responsibility for the areas currently served by Guildford, Waverley, Runnymede, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath and Woking. As we move towards this transition, our focus remains firmly on delivering high-quality, value-for-money services and staying true to our shared organisational values of Collaboration, Wellbeing, Trusted, Value for Money and Professionalism. We recognise that any period of organisational change can bring questions, particularly regarding future structures and working arrangements. Throughout this process, we are committed to supporting our colleagues with transparency and care prioritising wellbeing, maintaining a trusted and open dialogue, and ensuring continued access to learning and professional development opportunities. While the exact shape of the new West Surrey Council beyond 2027 is still being developed, joining us now means becoming part of an organisation where collaboration thrives and where your contribution will directly influence one of the most significant local government transformations in decades. You'll gain valuable experience, play an active role in shaping the future of public services across West Surrey, and work within a team committed to professionalism and delivering outstanding outcomes for our communities. Together, we will ensure a smooth transition and continue to deliver exceptional services for residents both now and into the future.

What We Offer: In return for your valued contribution, we offer a competitive benefits package which includes:

• Hybrid and agile working policies
• Training and development opportunities including apprenticeships
• Generous annual leave and flexi time
• An employee assistance programme
• Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme