Onward is looking for an exceptional candidate to lead its ‘Reshaping the State’ research programme, one of three new research programmes to be launched in the coming months. This programme will cover public service reform and issues of state capacity and size.

This is an important role for the organisation. The successful candidate will lead the development and delivery of insightful, robust and high-profile research and will play a key role in the renewal of UK centre right politics at a pivotal time. You will manage a small team of research staff and report to Onward’s Head of Research. Subject-specific expertise is not essential but experience working on public spending or public service reform would be an advantage. You will bring with you a proven track record of writing, developing and delivering policy ideas, with a deep understanding of centre right politics in the UK.

You will need experience writing and managing hard-hitting, timely and high quality research and building lasting relationships with key thought leaders, politicians and industry figures. You must also be able to demonstrate excellent written and spoken communication skills, a track record of using quantitative and qualitative research in a policy setting, and an affinity with Onward’s centre right political view, mission and values. Degree-level economics or data skills are desirable but not essential.

Your main responsibilities will be to:

• Drive forward your research programme, including developing the programme intellectually and identifying areas of specific focus;
• Edit and write research notes, longer papers, Substacks and other research material that boosts Onward’s agenda;
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders relevant to your research programme;
• Plan and chair Onward events relevant to your research programme, including roundtables and panels, fundraising dinners, and policy workshops;
• Provide management and support for 1-2 staff within your research team;
• Contribute to and support other short-term Onward policy projects as required.