Director, Research Operations

Research & Evidence (R&E) is a multidisciplinary team comprising methodologists, analysts, and subject matter experts dedicated to producing actionable evidence that informs thought leadership, policy development, and programmatic decisions within the global health, education, and development sectors. R&E collaborates with governments, funders, and communities to support informed decision-making and advance strategic innovation at FHI 360 and beyond. The team adheres to rigorous research standards and ensures the ethical conduct of research.

Situated within the Programs and Research Group (PRG), we are currently seeking a strategic and accomplished Director of Research Operations to lead and enhance the operational delivery of global research initiatives across diverse technical domains. This position involves partnership with multiple teams throughout FHI 360, including Global Operations and Services (GOS) and Strategy and Resource Mobilization (SRM). The Director of Research Operations will ensure research projects are conducted efficiently, ethically, and in alignment with organizational objectives. We are looking for candidates with proven experience in managing complex research projects from an operational standpoint.

Key Responsibilities :

Lead operational strategy and execution for a diverse, multi-country research portfolio.

Develop and implement systems to streamline research operations and mitigate risks.

Oversee SOPs, compliance with GCP guidelines, and regulatory standards.

Collaborate cross-functionally with Legal, Finance, HR, IT, and external stakeholders.

Mentor mid-level managers and foster a culture of accountability and innovation.

Manage vendor selection and performance oversight.

Implement project management tools and dashboards to monitor progress.

Conduct post-project reviews to inform future practices.

Qualifications :

Master's degree (or international equivalent) in Public Health, Social Sciences, Research Administration, or related field.

Minimum 10 years of operations experience, with 5+ years in a leadership role.

Proven experience managing complex, multi-country research portfolios.

Strong knowledge of IRB processes, donor compliance, and international research regulations.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management software.

Fluent in English.

Experience in NGO or nonprofit research settings.

Project Management certification preferred.

Skills & Attributes :

Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving and risk mitigation capabilities.

Excellent leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Ability to influence organizational decisions and drive innovation.

Comfortable working in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

Technology Requirements :

Familiarity with Office 365, SharePoint, Teams / Zoom, and standard office equipment.

Work Environment :

Typical office setting with regular use of computers and productivity tools.

Must be able to remain stationary for extended periods.

Travel Requirement : 5-10%

The expected US Based hiring salary range for this role is listed below. Candidates FHI 360 pay ranges represent national averages that vary by geographic location. When determining an offer amount, FHI 360 factors in multiple considerations, including but not limited to : relevant years of experience and education possessed by the applicant, internal equity, business sector, and budget.

Base salary is only one component of our offer. FHI 360 contributes 7 % of monthly base pay to a money purchase pension plan account. Additionally, all US based staff working full-time, which is calculated at 40 hours / week, receive 18 days of paid vacation per year, 12 sick days per year, and 11 holidays per year. Paid time off is reduced pro rata for employees working less than a full-time schedule.

US Based Hiring Salary Range : USD 120,000 - 160,000 annually

International hiring ranges will differ based on location

This job posting summarizes the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.

FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer whereby we do not engage in practices that discriminate against any person employed or seeking employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.

Our values and commitments to safeguarding : FHI 360 is committed to preventing any type of abuse, exploitation and harassment in our work environments and programs, including sexual abuse, exploitation and harassment. FHI 360 takes steps to safeguard the welfare of everyone who engages with our organization and programs and requires that all personnel, including staff members and volunteers, share this commitment and sign our code of conduct. All offers of employment will be subject to appropriate screening checks, including reference, criminal record and terrorism finance checks. FHI 360 also participates in the Inter-Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme (MDS), facilitated by the Steering Committee for Humanitarian Response. In line with the MDS, we will request information from job applicants' previous employers about any substantiated findings of sexual abuse, exploitation and / or harassment during the applicant's tenure with previous employers. By applying, job applicants confirm their understanding of these recruitment procedures and consent to these screening checks.

FHI 360 will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws.

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F HI 360 fosters the strength and health of its workforce through a c ompetitive benefits package , professional developmentand policies and programs that support a healthy work / life balance. Join our global workforce to make a positive difference for others - and yourself.

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