Research Lead, Global Canopy

• Strong background in research and research methods related to forest-risk commodities
• Ability to set realistic goals in planning research and data development, and managing a team to meet agreed timings for public releases
• Ability to lead, manage, and develop a research team
• Ability to identify strategic opportunities and innovations
• Attention to detail and accuracy through data, communications outputs, and engagement
• Ability to problem-solve and identify opportunities for improvement of existing systems
• Ability to think creatively and identify innovative ways to use existing and new data and metrics to reach audiences and deliver impact
• Skills and experience:
• Leading a small team
• Strong data literacy and analysis skills, including qualitative data collection and analysis
• Demonstrable experience of applying research methods and practices, including both quantitative and qualitative data and statistical analysis, and programming and/or use of tools related to research techniques
• Ability to communicate complex ideas and methodologies to non-expert audiences

Desirable

• This is an exciting and pivotal role for an experienced research and project lead
• As Research Lead for the Corporate Performance Programme, you will have oversight of all aspects of research relating to three of Global Canopy’s flagship projects: Forest 500 (including Floresta 250), Forest IQ and DEFT Pathway as well as associated Guidance
• You will be part of an effective team in a fast-growing and dynamic non-profit delivering on complex and impactful projects around the world
• You will manage a team of researchers, building on the strong and collaborative atmosphere already in place
• You will have a vital role across the organisation with visibility of other research projects too, including how they complement each other and interact, and work with other experts such as those from communications or Human Rights
• The Research Lead contributes to strategy developments and innovations in our approach and in the data products and tools we provide
• You will work with colleagues to help secure funding for the continued impact of our research as the world changes
• You will lead methodology updates in line with the Accountability Framework initiative and in the context of world events relating to forest risk commodities, and interpret methodologies for annual assessment cycles led by the team
• The impact and audience for this data will be a key focus for you
• You will distil the resulting data into findings and insights for content creation and publications and will work with colleagues to ensure the data is well understood by media and assessed entities
• By speaking and representing Global Canopy at events you will ensure our methodology and data is shared openly and delivers impact
• Lead the Corporate Performance (CP) research team, maintaining accountability for technical quality assurance of our data, process and findings across three of Global Canopy’s flagship projects: Forest 500+ (including Floresta 250), Forest IQ and DEFT Pathway, as well as Deforestation Free-Finance Guidance
• Lead and manage the research team, supporting Research Associates and Researchers to own and succeed in their respective projects and with the workflows they manage
• Build strong teamwork and technical excellence with a focus on impact
• Stay abreast of methodological updates, research methods and best practices across the assessment cycles, based on ongoing NGO alignment and external developments in line with our Theory of Change
• You'll lead cross-function collaborative team working and communication to ensure a focus on impact in research strategy and delivery, with seamless end-to-end processes up to and including data and content releases
• Strongly contribute to the management and strategy of the CP programme during a pivotal year by driving and developing new innovations
• Contribute to new fundraising proposals that strategically progress research needs and ensure continued funding
• Deliver commitments to donors and in the CP annual plan related to research and help maintain donor relationships by reporting on Research-led deliverables
• Connect the CP programme with its target audiences and extend impact by engaging with NGOs, working with the Communications team to create public-facing content, and representing Global Canopy externally, particularly on technical elements of the methodology, best practice and findings
• Nature of contract: Full-time, fixed-term (24 months), with possibility to extend dependent on funding

• To apply for the position, please follow the instructions on the next page and submit an up-to date CV and covering letter
• The covering letter should explain your motivation for the role, and how your skills and experience fit the person specification. (Please no more than 1 side of A4)
• The closing date for applications is 8 December 2025 at 9am GMT
• Early application encouraged as we will be conducting rolling interviews. We may close applications early if suitable candidates are identified
• First-round interviews calls will be conducted remotely via a video call
• Following rounds consist of a take-home technical test and a final interview (in person at our Oxford office where possible; we will reimburse reasonable travel expenses to attend interviews)