Director of Program Research and Innovation

About the role

The Director of Program Research and Innovation leads Raising The Village’s portfolio of implementation‑embedded pilots, restricted‑funded technical projects, applied experiments, RCTs and other innovation initiatives. This strategic, cross‑functional role is accountable for the full chain from project design to delivery oversight, evidence synthesis and translation of learning into stronger program choices.

Key responsibilities

• Own the end‑to‑end portfolio of pilots, experiments, A/B tests, RCTs and restricted‑funded technical projects, setting a learning agenda linked to program enhancement, adaptation and scale.
• Lead project intake, prioritisation and stage‑gate decisions, shaping design with program, applied learning, M&E and technical experts while ensuring clear governance, workplans and risk management.
• Oversee operational coordination of projects, maintain visibility on delivery progress, translate findings into recommendations for program design, module refinement, scale and future investment choices.
• Lead donor and partner engagement on relevant projects, build and manage a small high‑performing team and establish strong ways of working with matrixed contributors across the organisation.

Required profile

• Extensive experience leading applied research, innovation portfolios or learning‑driven technical projects in international development or a related field.
• Strong grounding in evaluation methods, both experimental and non‑experimental, with the judgment to balance rigor, speed and feasibility.
• Demonstrated experience managing initiatives that involve implementation teams, technical experts, data teams and senior stakeholders.
• Ability to translate technical findings into practical recommendations for both technical and non‑technical audiences.

What we offer

• Group RRSP matching program up to 5%.
• Medical, dental, vision and travel insurance.
• Four weeks of vacation.
• Hybrid work model (three days in office, two days remote).
• Limited international travel may be required.