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Director of Research Position Overview
The Director of Research leads the National Institute on Retirement Security’s research strategy and portfolio, overseeing the development, production, and dissemination of research on retirement security issues. This role ensures that NIRS produces high-quality, timely, and policy-relevant research that informs policymakers, retirement systems, and the broader public conversation on retirement security.
This is a hybrid position based in Washington, D.C., with a combination of in-office and remote work.
Research Leadership
- Lead the NIRS research agenda in collaboration with the Executive Director, with final approval from the NIRS Board of Directors.
- Direct the research program to ensure timely, high-quality deliverables aligned with NIRS’ mission and strategic priorities.
- Author and co-author research reports on key retirement security issues, including collecting, analyzing, and interpreting relevant data.
- Develop and maintain relationships with retirement policy experts, including researchers in academia, think tanks, and retirement systems.
- Identify opportunities for collaboration and coordinate with outside researchers and partner organizations to develop project proposals and contribute to grant proposals.
- Serve as a subject matter expert on retirement security issues by responding to media inquiries, preparing commentary and content, and providing research-based fact checks.
Project Management
- Oversee project management for NIRS research products, including maintaining the research deliverables calendar and ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
- Ensure research outputs meet high standards for analytical rigor, accuracy, and policy relevance.
- Oversee report production, including coordinating with graphics and communications staff on design, publication, and distribution.
Member Engagement and External Representation
- Provide technical assistance to NIRS members on retirement research and policy issues.
- Collaborate with NIRS membership and communications staff on strategic initiatives and member engagement.
- Work with the Executive Director to coordinate the agenda and speakers for the annual Retirement Policy Conference and Visionary Member meeting.
- Support the Executive Director in serving as a spokesperson for NIRS on retirement security research, including speaking at events and engaging with the media.
What Success Looks Like in This Role
Within the first year, the Director of Research will have strengthened NIRS’ research portfolio by producing high-quality publications that advance the national conversation on retirement security. Successful candidates will demonstrate the ability to translate complex research into accessible insights for policymakers, journalists, and retirement system leaders.
The Director will also cultivate strong relationships with academic researchers, policy experts, and NIRS members, helping position NIRS as a trusted source of research and analysis on retirement policy. Over time, the Director of Research will play a key role in shaping NIRS’ research agenda, identifying emerging issues in retirement security, and expanding the organization’s impact in national policy discussions.
Qualifications
- Advanced degree preferred in economics, finance, public policy, actuarial science or a related field, with five to ten years of relevant experience.
- Strong research and analytical skills, including experience working with statistical software and retirement research datasets.
- Knowledge of retirement security issues and the public policy process at both state and federal levels.
- Excellent writing and communication skills, with the ability to translate complex research for diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, maintain strong attention to detail, think strategically, and meet deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset, with the ability to work effectively in a small team environment where flexibility and cross-functional collaboration are essential.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample to info@nirsonline.org.
