Research Manager - Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy

The Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy (Johnson Center) seeks to understand, strengthen, and advance philanthropy in order to create strong, inclusive communities. 

The center is seeking a Research Manager to join an interdisciplinary team of social science and information technology professionals.

This is a full-time (40 hours per week) position located at our offices on the Pew Campus at GVSU, with the opportunity for a hybrid work schedule according to the GVSU flexible work arrangement policy (currently 2 days per week onsite).

As a Research Manager, you will focus on quantitative and qualitative analysis, program evaluation, writing, and presentation support for applied research and evaluation projects foundation, government, and nonprofit clients. 

The Research Manager (RM) is a critical role ensuring the Johnson Center’s work translates data and information to storytelling and decision support that helps advance the sector. The RM will collaborate with research associates, data analysts, web developers, project managers, and other staff across the Johnson Center. In addition, the RM is an ambassador for our work and will build relationships with current and potential clients and engage in public speaking and facilitation at workshops, presentations, and conferences. Key to the position is maintaining the highest standards of research quality and ethics, including collaboration with the university’s Institutional Review Board. 

The RM will propose research methodology, follows existing Johnson Center data protocols, suggests and implements improvements, and will serve as one of the center's internal and external “research ambassadors.”

The RM will report to and regularly meet one-on-one with the Director of Consulting Services who will work closely with you and support you regarding project selection, client engagement, research, and final presentation. On-the-job training and professional development opportunities will be available and reflect the center’s culture and values. 

Primary Duties:

• Lead team decision-making regarding study design, data collection, data analysis, and methodology

• Manage multiple projects at one time, monitor project cost, meet project deadlines, and utilize project management software

• Proactively learn new methodologies that are applicable to projects

• Ensure the integrity of project data, including data extraction, storage, processing, manipulation, and analysis

• Guide data analysis plans and oversee data analyses (conducting analysis firsthand when needed) and ensure that interpretations/reporting of results are valid and add value for the client

• Facilitate or speak on research and evaluation design, data collection, and analysis at workshops, presentations, and conferences as well as with team members and other Johnson Center staff

• Build relationships with clients to identify needs; design and implement plans to meet client needs

• Write reports, grants, and proposals

• Monitor budgets and staff time on projects

• Supervise staff, students, and/or interns, as assigned

• Perform other duties as necessary/assigned by supervisor

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Master’s degree with 3+ years of professional research experience

• Prior experience in client consulting and project management

• Prior experience conducting community-based research

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills 

• Ability to work effectively as part of multiple teams

• Strong collaboration, interpersonal, and cultural responsiveness skills

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ph.D. with strong background in research

• Demonstrated prior experience in program evaluation

• Experience with leading others and/or teaching

• Advanced quantitative and qualitative research skills

Working Conditions: Normal office environment. Some travel may be required.

Campus: The Johnson Center is located on the Pew Campus of Grand Valley State University. We are housed in the Bicycle Factory (BIK 200), which is close to Winter and Secchia Halls and the Seidman College of Business.

Salary & Benefits: $70,000-$85,000, commensurate with experience.

Comprehensive benefits package includes medical, vision, dental, and life insurance, gen