Director, Research & Impact

Full-time Permanent
Six Nations or Toronto, ON

Annual Salary Range: $111,551-$139,439

Closing Date: May 7, 2026, 5:00pm EST

Overview

Indspire is a national Indigenous charity that invests in the education of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students, empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and building a stronger country for all. We are seeking a Director of Research & Impact to provide the operational and intellectual leadership necessary to advance Indspire’s research agenda. The role prioritizes the execution of culturally responsive research programs that uplift Indigenous voices, support reconciliation, and improve educational outcomes. The Director manages critical research infrastructure (including REB, SSHRC, and STATCAN frameworks) and oversees the mechanics of impact measurement and data evaluation.

Key Responsibilities

• Operationalizing and managing the execution of the multi-year research strategic plan.
• Providing intellectual and Indigenous leadership in the design, methodology, and execution of research initiatives.
• Supporting the expansion of the department's influence by cultivating foundational and academic partnerships that generate robust, actionable insights.
• Overseeing the production and translation of high-impact research findings into accessible formats, equipping the VP and executive team for national advocacy and engagement.
• Representing the department at national and international forums to elevate the organization's research practices and institutional credibility.
• Synthesizing research findings to provide data-driven recommendations that support the VP and executive team in navigating internal and external policy shifts.
• Utilizing research to inform internal decision-making, team priorities, and resource allocation.

Team Leadership and Research Operations

• Leading, mentoring, and developing a multidisciplinary research team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Overseeing research planning, project management, and evaluation to ensure timely, high-quality deliverables align with organizational priorities.
• Managing the departmental budget, resource allocation, and reporting in alignment with strategic goals.
• Establishing and upholding data security protocols and privacy policies in compliance with ethical research standards and Indigenous data governance principles (e.g., OCAP).
• Managing the day-to-day operations and execution of the Research Ethics Board (REB).
• Maintaining the organization's SSHRC institutional eligibility and compliance.
• Acting as the primary administrative lead for STATCAN data access and overseeing deemed employees.

Partnerships and Collaboration

• Managing the administrative and operational execution of partnerships with post-secondary institutions, research collectives, and Indigenous communities to ensure research deliverables are met.
• Drafting, negotiating, and managing the administrative life cycle of collaborative research agreements and MOUs with external stakeholders.
• Directing the day-to-day cross-functional collaboration with internal teams to ensure the seamless operational integration of research and evaluation initiatives across the organization.

Knowledge Mobilization and Impact

• Operationalizing and managing the multi-year Knowledge Mobilization strategy to ensure findings are effectively shared and utilized across diverse audiences.
• Leading the production and packaging of research findings across multiple platforms, including reports, academic publications, digital media, and workshops, ensuring materials are accessible and culturally relevant.
• Driving the operational mechanics of impact measurement, standardizing models and data collection to clearly demonstrate the value and outcomes of the department's work.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree in research, education, social sciences, or a related field; doctoral degree preferred.
• Proven experience in leading research initiatives, particularly with a focus on Indigenous methodologies and systemic change.
• 5–7 years of leadership experience, including managing teams, budgets, and complex projects.
• Deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, languages, traditions, and perspectives, with a demonstrated commitment to reconciliation and equity.
• Advanced skills in program evaluation, impact assessment, and data analytics using software such as NVivo, SPSS, or similar preferred.
• Strong understanding of research ethics, institutional compliance (e.g., REB, Tri-Council/SSHRC guidelines), and Indigenous data governance principles (e.g., OCAP).
• Superior communication and relationship-building skills, with a track record of engaging diverse stakeholders and Indigenous communities.
• Experience presenting at academic forums and translating complex research into actionable insights to support policy development.
• Proven ability to navigate and influence in cross-functional and multi-stakeholder environments.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to balance competing priorities.
• Ability to travel and work evenings or weekends as needed.

What We Offer

• A competitive benefits and pension plan.
• 3 weeks’ vacation with paid personal and sick days as well as additional holiday closings.
• A passionate, dedicated team culture.
• Opportunities for professional growth and cultural learning.
• The chance to make a real and lasting difference in the lives of Indigenous students.

Indspire is committed to ensuring an equal opportunity and barrier‑free recruitment process. Accommodation is available to all applicants upon request.

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