Research Manager – Public Affairs (Scotland)

Overview

As Research Manager for Public Affairs Scotland, you will lead mixed-methods research and evaluation projects across Scotland’s public policy landscape. You’ll work within a 16-person team in Edinburgh to shape policy insights, services, and public understanding. You’ll manage diverse studies—from qualitative and quantitative work to deliberative engagement and complex surveys—driving meaningful impact for citizens and clients. This role offers growth in a collaborative, high-expertise environment with opportunities to contribute to business development and proposals.

Pay / Benefits

• 25 days annual leave
• pension contribution
• income protection
• life assurance
• health & wellbeing benefits
• professional development opportunities

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end social research projects from design to delivery
• Apply qualitative and/or quantitative methods to meet client objectives
• Translate data into actionable insights and compelling reports
• Develop proposals and support business development activities
• Oversee multiple projects and competing priorities with effective stakeholder management
• Support client relationships and contribute to team growth and planning
• Leverage AI-enabled tools and digital technologies to improve research delivery
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality research outcomes

Key requirements

• Experience managing social research projects from design through delivery
• Strong qualitative and/or quantitative research skills
• Ability to select and apply appropriate methodologies to meet client objectives
• Experience analysing data and translating findings into insights
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills
• Strong stakeholder and client management capabilities
• Commercial awareness and experience contributing to proposals or business development activities
• Excellent organisational and project management skills
• Proficiency in using AI-enabled tools and digital technologies to support research delivery and efficiency

• Collaborative team player
• Strong communicator who builds trusted relationships
• Curious and analytical problem-solver
• Qualitative and quantitative research methods
• Deliberative research methods
• Behavioural research

…