Job Description

Research and Innovation Director

Purpose of the Job

The Research and Innovation Director is responsible for establishing and leading Coptic Orphan's new Research and Innovation (R&I) department. This key role will drive evidence-based decision making and foster innovation throughout the organization. The Director will conduct strategic research and data analysis, pilot and evaluate new initiatives, identify and implement best practices, and develop performance metrics. These efforts will directly support Coptic Orphan's mission, enhance organizational effectiveness, and promote sustainable growth. The R&I department will serve as a catalyst for improvement across all levels of the organization. ​

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Research and Analysis:

• Develop and execute a robust research agenda focused on identifying and validating new program ideas, models, and initiatives that align with Coptic Orphans' strategic priorities.
• Analyze global best practices and emerging trends in nonprofit management, child welfare, and international development to inform the design of innovative approaches.
• Conduct internal and external research studies to identify knowledge gaps and inform strategic decision-making.
• Utilize advanced data analytics (predictive modeling, impact forecasting, trend analysis) and qualitative research methods (surveys, focus groups, field studies) to assess, refine, and validate the viability of new initiatives before implementation and scaling.
• Design and implement performance measurement frameworks tailored specifically for piloted programs and new initiatives, ensuring their outcomes are carefully assessed.​
• Establish partnerships with research institutions, universities, and think tanks to expand research capabilities and leverage emerging methodologies.
• Maintain a central knowledge repository, making research findings accessible and actionable across departments.

Innovation and Strategy:

• Provide research-backed recommendations on proposed initiatives and ideas, enabling decision-makers to determine the best course of action aligned with the organization's overall strategy.
• Collaborate with the Programs team to identify opportunities for programs scaling and improvement based on research insights.
• Develop mechanisms to test, refine, and iterate on innovative ideas, ensuring only well-researched and viable initiatives move forward.
• Foster a culture of research-backed experimentation, data-driven decision-making, continuous learning, and innovation to drive strategic growth.

Knowledge and Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Statistics, Data Science, Social Research, or a related field (Master's degree is a plus).
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in research, impact evaluation, innovation management, and strategy formulation.
• Proven experience leading large-scale research initiatives and applying findings to strategic decision-making.
• Strong background in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, data analytics, and performance measurement frameworks.
• Experience working with child welfare, education, and nonprofit program evaluation is highly desirable.

Travel Requirement

Requires in-country travel and international travel which is estimated at 30% of the time.

Our Benefits

Coptic Orphans offer a wide range of benefits including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, optional Short-term and Long-term Disability coverage, access to onsite fitness, an Employee assistance program, and paid time off. Employees have the option to participate in a company-sponsored 403(b) retirement plan.

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