Research Director (Higher Education)

About the role

We Are Aspire represents an independent social and market research agency, which helps government understand business needs and is described as one of the UK's largest research agencies while staying focused on public value and societal impact. It delivers end-to-end research combining quantitative and qualitative insight with deep sector expertise. The agency is looking for a Research Director for its Higher Education portfolio, based in London on a hybrid basis.

Key responsibilities

• Grow the higher education portfolio by developing client relationships, identifying opportunities and contributing to work-winning activity.
• Lead high-profile research supporting universities, policymakers and higher education bodies to address key sector challenges.
• Strengthen the higher education offer through innovative research, thought leadership, networking and understanding emerging sector priorities.

Required profile

• Strong knowledge of the higher education sector, including university priorities, stakeholders, strategic challenges and the value of insight.
• Proven market research, consultancy or professional services experience, with strong client relationship and stakeholder management skills.
• Confident communicator with experience developing proposals, supporting business growth and explaining complex issues to diverse audiences.
• Senior researcher with a background in the social and public sectors.