Research Director

We are expanding our team and seeking an experienced Research Director to support our research-driven approach to design. This director level role is ideal for a seasoned professional with a master’s degree in social science, data science, or a related field, with a connection to or focus in the education sector preferred, and at least 10 years of professional experience delivering rigorous, high-quality research.

The Research Director will bring exceptional attention to detail, a deep commitment to data accuracy and methodological integrity, and a genuine desire to help grow and elevate our firm’s research capabilities. This role combines technical expertise, leadership, and strategic thinking to ensure our work continues to meet the highest standards of excellence.

Our Vision and Values

The core values of Hollis + Miller are at the heart of everything that we do. As a Hollis + Miller team member, you live our core values through your day-to-day efforts as we work together to Design the Future.

• We are purpose driven, making a difference by impacting the lives of others through our work.
• We are people centric, empowering those around us to learn and grow within our dynamic culture.
• We believe in the power of we, supporting diversity of thought and recognizing that good ideas can come from anywhere.

Basic Qualifications

• Master’s degree in social or data science, education, or other relevant field required. Doctorate degree and or research certification preferred.
• At least 10 years of related professional experience is preferred.
• Background in Project Management and leading project teams required.
• Proven experience independently leading qualitative research projects required, quantitative and/or mixed methods research preferred.
• Extensive background in organizing and leading interviews, focus groups, and community listening sessions with diverse populations and stakeholders.
• Vast experience writing research reports and developing insights for diverse audiences.
• Advanced Microsoft Office skills, including PowerPoint.
• Deep understanding of qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo) and some experience working with quantitative analysis software (e.g., SPSS) preferred.
• Familiarity with data visualization software (e.g., Tableau or Power
  
  BI) a plus, as well as graphic tools such as Adobe Creative Suite applications.
• Self-starter with strong sense of ownership and initiative.
• Creates thoughtful, smart approaches to research projects through innovative idea generation.
• Displays strong relationship management and the ability to foster new relationships across company pillars, creating awareness and buy-in from leadership and project teams.
• Ability to internalize feedback with open demeanor and adapts quickly with a high degree of responsiveness, and comfort with ambiguity.
• Solves problems strategically and can multi-task while managing time well.
• Displays extremely strong organization skills and attention to detail
• Possesses an ability to simplify and visually present findings to a variety of audiences and stakeholders.
• Possesses excellent written and verbal communication skills and approaches work with an energetic and positive attitude

Role Responsibilities

Research & Analysis

• Manages research team capacity and provides an organized approach to conduct recurring and ad hoc research efforts.
• Leads planning and execution of a portfolio of research projects with a significant qualitative analysis component, including a collaborative approach to refining research questions, developing and codifying research methods, accessing and/or collecting data, analyzing data, surfacing insights, and creating visualizations, presentations, and reports on findings.
• Collaborates with the Education Design Director to identify annual research initiatives, supporting the integration of qualitative and quantitative research findings to enhance project outcomes.
• Ensures timely and accurate delivery of initial and final findings from research projects.
• Serves as lead consultant on publicly available state and national data sources on education as well as data requirements and access to support development of organization-wide research agenda.
• Bu…