Head of Research & Innovation (Permanent)

New Today

We’re looking for talented, driven individuals who are passionate about sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), and who thrive on data, evidence generation, and impact communication. This is a chance to help shape how we measure and disseminate the real-world impact of our work — not from the sidelines, but by rolling up your sleeves and diving in. If you're a bold thinker who loves turning complex data into compelling stories, thrives in fast-evolving environments, and is excited about helping build a future-focused, resilient team, we want to hear from you. You’ll be part of a team that champions innovative research and drives sector-shaping insights — with the chance to become a thought leader and influencer in the global SRHR space. Come push boundaries with us and help drive meaningful change around the world. In a world where 218 million women lack access to contraception, evidence isn't just academic—it's life-changing. Delivering of lifechanging services to millions of women; $Whether you are inside or outside SRH, or from health economics, development research, tech analytics, or academic evaluation, we want people who are driven by impact and excel at translating complex data into compelling action. MSI Reproductive Choices is one of the world’s leading providers of sexual and reproductive healthcare. From contraception to safe abortion and life-saving post-abortion care, we are committed to delivering compassionate, affordable, high-quality services for all.
Our success lies in the fact that MSI teams are locally led, entrepreneurial and results-driven, and are passionate about delivering high quality, client-centred care in their own communities. As a social business, we focus on sustainable delivery, efficiency, and funding models that are built to last, so that the women and girls we serve today will have a choice in the future too. #
For some, it can mean the ability to complete an education or start a career. Lead MSI’s flagship research initiatives and high-stakes third-party evaluations—ensuring world-class methodological rigour, strategic relevance, and real-world impact. You will drive research excellence across the organisation while cultivating and strengthening relationships with research-focused donors who demand—and fund—the highest standard of analytical credibility. Research Excellence: All major studies meet or exceed donor expectations for methodological quality, ethical integrity, and utility—establishing MSI as a go-to centre of research excellence in the SRHR sector.
Tangible increases in funding and partnerships from research-oriented donors, with growing demand for MSI-led evidence initiatives.
Research findings directly influence programmatic strategies, donor policy, and global SRHR discourse, leading to measurable shifts in access, quality, and equity in reproductive healthcare .
As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone can participate and contribute meaningfully. We value open-mindedness, curiosity, resilience, and a solutions-oriented mindset, alongside a commitment to promoting equality and safeguarding the welfare of both team members and clients.
Technical Research Expertise
Expert knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies including RCTs, quasi-experimental methods; including multi-country evaluations and ethical research management.
Proficiency in advanced statistical analysis and research data interpretation. Excellent data analysis skills using statistical software packages (STATA or R) and advanced excel skills; experience of advanced quantitative analysis techniques such as Interrupted Time Series Analysis, multilevel regression etc.
Proficiency in developing new metrics and frameworks for assessing program impact, particularly in equity, disability, and marginalized group outcomes.
Deep understanding of research ethics , protocols, and quality assurance processes
Substantial experience in sexual and reproductive health research
Understanding of SRH research challenges, indicators, and measurement approaches
Knowledge of key global health research institutions and networks
Familiarity with demographic and health research data sources and methodologies
Proven ability to communicate complex research concepts to diverse audiences
Strong networks within academic research community and global health institutions
Knowledge of evaluation standards expected by major donors and foundations
Ability to build strategic research partnerships and secure funding through external engagement.
Strong leadership in managing research portfolios and teams and skilled at capacity building approaches.
Strong mentoring and coaching skills at individual and team levels
Extensive (minimum of 8 years) experience in leading research in global health
Strong track record in managing multi-country research initiatives and partnerships.
Demonstrated experience in thought leadership, research dissemination, and donor engagement.
Proven ability to manage teams, budgets, and deliver high-quality research outputs in a fast-paced environment.
Advanced degree in Public Health, Social Sciences, or related fields is essential.
Additional qualification or formal training in research design or impact evaluation desirable
Proficiency in French is highly desirable (please state level in application)
Additional qualification or formal training in research design, epidemiology or impact evaluation, data visualisation such as PowerBI; advanced excel skills - desirable
Location: London, UK (minimum of 2 days per week in the office).
Full-time: 35 hours a week, Monday to Friday.
Contract type: Permanent.
Discretionary bonus + benefits.
Apply
Location:
London
Salary:
£59,600,000
Job Type:
FullTime

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