Director of Research

The Economic Innovation Group (EIG) is a bipartisan public policy organization dedicated to forging a more dynamic and inclusive American economy. Headquartered in Washington, DC, EIG produces nationally recognized economic research and works with policymakers to develop solutions that empower workers, entrepreneurs, and communities.

About the Role

EIG is seeking an exceptional Director of Research. In this pivotal role, the Director of Research will advance EIG's mission by spearheading the organization’s research agenda, developing high-caliber research and policy insights, and leading a talented and growing team. We are looking for applicants who are deeply curious, possess natural leadership ability, and thrive on exploring big ideas that will shape the future of the U.S. economy.

Responsibilities

1. Organizational Leadership (5%)

• The Director of Research is a member of EIG's leadership team, playing a key role in the organization's strategic planning and efforts to foster a culture of excellence.

2. Research Team Strategy and Management (40%)

• Develop and oversee EIG’s research agenda, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission and strategic goals.
• Lead a team of researchers, providing guidance, mentorship, and support to foster a collaborative and innovative research environment.
• Manage the workflow of EIG’s research team and outside contractors to ensure the steady output of innovative and timely content, consistently meeting ambitious project deadlines on budget.
• Spearhead the development and oversight of research budgets and grant applications.
• Identify emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the economic landscape to inform EIG’s research priorities.
• Lead cross-departmental collaboration and represent the research team in executive meetings.

3. Research and Writing (40%)

• Design and execute rigorous economic research projects, utilizing quantitative and qualitative methods to analyze economic data and trends.
• Produce high-quality reports, policy briefs, publications, briefing materials, and presentations that communicate complex economic concepts in an accessible manner to diverse audiences.

4. Stakeholder Engagement (15%)

• Play a central role in building and maintaining EIG's relationships with key stakeholders, including with policymakers seeking guidance to inform legislation, academics and subject matter experts across our issue areas, and industry leaders, media, and others seeking our technical expertise.
• Serve as an organizational spokesperson and represent EIG in public forums, at conferences, and through media engagements, presenting our work to stakeholders in a clear and persuasive manner.

Qualifications

A successful candidate will be passionate about our mission and worldview, thrive in a collaborative work environment, and possess outstanding leadership and problem solving skills. Specific qualifications include:

• Advanced degree (Master’s preferred) in economics, public policy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7+ years of experience in economic research, policy analysis, or a related area, with a proven track record of successfully managing research personnel and projects.
• Established portfolio of published work on economic policy issues, preferably ones related to economic geography, innovation, entrepreneurship, and labor mobility.
• Strong analytical skills, including proficiency in statistical software and data analysis tools. Experience conducting analysis in R or STATA strongly preferred.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of conveying complex ideas clearly, persuasively, and publicly.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, including policymakers, academics, journalists, and industry leaders.

Why Join EIG?

This position is at the heart of the action for EIG, providing an opportunity to shape the nation’s economic debate and advance transformative legislation. As a relatively small and nimble organization, we take great pride in punching far above our weight. For nearly a decade, our work has consistently attracted national media attention and engagement from leading lawmakers on both sides of the aisle across a range of important issues.

Benefits

We offer competitive compensation of $150K - $200K annually, depending on experience, plus discretionary bonuses and an extensive benefits package including:

• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental for employees and dependents
• 401(k) contribution
• 20 days of PTO and with increases after years 3 and 5; 12 days of paid sick leave; and a generous paid holiday schedule
• A hybrid schedule: This position blends the collaborative energy of regular in-person engagements at our Washington, D.C., office three days per week coupled with the flexibility of two days of remote work.

Apply

Please send: (1) cover letter, (1) resume, and a (1) writing sample to [email protected] with the subject line “Director of Research” by November 15, 2024. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply as early as possible.

EIG is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, gender, gender identity, parental or pregnancy status, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, or Veteran status.