Senior Associate – Research

About us:

We are a high-end research and evaluation firm delivering rigorous, theory-driven insights to clients in the development sector. Our work spans monitoring and evaluation (M&E), impact assessments, primary and secondary research, and high-quality field data collection. Founded by a former World Bank education specialist, we aspire to set benchmarks for quality and credibility in the research and consulting ecosystem.

Job Responsibilities:

1. Business Development & Institutional Growth

Identify and pursue opportunities with foundations, multilaterals, corporates (CSR), and government agencies.

• Conceptualize and design proposals, pitch decks, and capability statements tailored to client and funder needs.
• Forge and sustain strategic partnerships with NGOs, research institutions, and ecosystem actors to expand the firm's footprint.

2. Project Design, Management & Implementation

Lead the design and delivery of impact evaluations, landscape studies, needs assessments, and strategy advisory projects.

• Oversee end-to-end project delivery, including workplans, methodologies, stakeholder engagement, field data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Monitor project teams on ground, assign responsibilities, and troubleshoot to ensure timely and quality delivery.
• Ensure outputs maintain high standards of rigor, contextual sensitivity, and alignment with global evidence frameworks (SDGs, ESG, CSR mandates, NEP, etc.).

3. Research, Evidence & Knowledge Translation

Our areas of operation encompass education, skill development, livelihoods, environmental sustainability, climate action, the social sector, and related impact domains.

• Translate academic and theoretical frameworks into actionable strategies and recommendations for clients.
• Produce high-quality reports, strategy notes, policy briefs, and impact communication materials that inform decision-making.
• Contribute to the firm's knowledge assets by developing case studies, thematic notes, and sector insights.

4. Data Management & Analytics

• Clean, manage, and analyses large datasets using advanced Excel, R, and/or Python.
• Develop and implement data quality protocols to ensure reliable and valid insights from field data.
• Support dashboards, data visualizations, and evidence-based recommendations for clients.

5. Organizational Strategy & growth

Work closely with the CEO to shape the firm's growth strategy, five-year vision, and annual operating plans.

• Design organizational structures, verticals, and role definitions to strengthen internal capacity.
• Lead internal strategy workshops, aligning teams with the firm's mission and client priorities.

6. Team Leadership & Capacity Building

Build, Manage and mentor multidisciplinary teams, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and learning.

• Define and monitor individual and team roles during fieldwork, data analysis, reporting and client interactions.

Build internal capacities in research, analysis, and client engagement through ongoing guidance and training.

Qualifications:

• 4–7 years of relevant experience in research, analytics, monitoring and evaluation, or related fields.
• Strong theoretical foundation with the ability to apply frameworks to practical client needs.
• Proven track record in proposal development, project design, and research execution.
• High-level data analysis skills, including Excel (pivot tables, lookups, dashboards), and proficiency in R or Python for cleaning, analysis, and data management.
• Excellent writing, presentation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and collaborate effectively within small, agile teams.
• Familiarity with development sector stakeholders; networks in NGOs, CSR foundations, and donors will be an added advantage.

Why Join Us?:

Advantage of working directly with the CEO in a dynamic startup environment, gaining unparalleled exposure, ownership, and accelerated career growth. Contribute across diverse sectors while building expertise in research, strategy, and impact advisory with real on-ground impact.

Salary:

Commensurate with industry standards, experience and skills.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates can email their updated CV to krishnangi.negi@unnatiC4E.com.