Associate Director, Research and Strategic Advisory Services

Associate Director, Research and Strategic Advisory Services Join for the Associate Director, Research and Strategic Advisory Services role at EAB. About EAB At EAB, our mission is to make education smarter and our communities stronger. We work with more than 2,800 institutions to drive transformative change through data‑driven insights and best‑in‑class capabilities. From kindergarten to college to career, EAB partners with leaders and practitioners to accelerate progress and drive results across enrollment, student success, institutional strategy, data analytics, and advancement. We tailor our portfolio of research, technology, marketing, and enrollment solutions to meet the unique needs of each partner and the students and employees they serve. We also prioritize employee well‑being, which has earned us recognition for our dedication to our teams. For more information, visit our Careers page. The Role in Brief Associate Directors on our Strategic Advisory Services team (within the Research Discovery & Design division) help design research projects and services that address major strategic, management, and operational issues facing education today. Researchers conduct in‑depth interviews with campus executives and perform data and root‑cause analyses to identify market‑leading strategies and best practices. As a member of our team, you will innovate and produce syndicated research and high‑value services such as executive roundtables, workshops, webinars, and publications, and advise partner organizations on strategy and best‑practice implementation. The Academic Innovation pillar focuses on challenges like program portfolio management, curricular and co‑curricular innovations, instructional efficiency, cost management, sponsored research, and faculty affairs. The team supports provosts and academic deans with thought leadership, strategy guidance, and hands‑on implementation support. A Successful Candidate For This Position Will Bring strong professional judgment and clear communication skills, translating complex findings into accessible insights for campus leaders. Thrive in collaborative, fast‑moving environments—taking initiative, following through on details, and adjusting quickly as priorities evolve. Combine analytical rigor with intellectual curiosity and agility, getting up to speed on key issues quickly and taking ownership over sub‑terrains. Draw on a range of sources and deploy various methods to generate actionable advice that is both strategic and tactical. Have experience beyond academic research, such as consulting or advisory work that translates insights into strategy and action. This hire may be based in Washington D.C. or Richmond, VA; remote employment in the continental U.S. is also accepted. Occasional travel (up to approximately 10%) may be required for presenting research findings and facilitating strategy sessions. Note: The official internal title is Associate Director, Research Discovery & Design. Primary Responsibilities Design and lead strategic research projects from conception to completion (2–4 months to ~9 months). Provide intellectual leadership and analytical direction throughout all stages of the research process. Synthesize complex ideas into actionable insights for executive audiences. Use persuasive writing, storytelling, and graphics to communicate ideas. Manage relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Conduct market‑sizing, testing calls, and product design analysis for new research and product enhancements. Collaborate with project leads, subject matter experts, and delivery teams to ensure scalable execution and interactive partner engagement. Manage and coach junior‑level researcher staff. Deliver initial services and presentations to executive‑level clients. Basic Qualifications Bachelor’s degree with an excellent academic record and 5+ years of post‑graduate professional experience; or 4+ years of post‑graduate professional experience plus an advanced degree; or bachelor’s degree with 4+ years of post‑graduate experience, including 2+ years in EAB Research. Willingness to travel up to 10%. Experience with at least two of the following: Management or strategy consulting University/education strategic planning Long‑term research projects (≥3 months) Primary and secondary research Higher education experience Ideal Qualifications Advanced degree or equivalent demonstrating strategic, analytical, and business problem‑solving capability (MA, MPP, PhD, JD, or similar). Majors or advanced degrees in education, economics, political science, data analytics, statistics, or other quantitative fields. Experience working in team environments and independently in ambiguous, fast‑changing contexts. Proven ability to communicate effectively with senior executives. Experience with solution‑focused problem solving. Experience in a consultative client role. Demonstrated project management and deadline compliance. Commitment to learning and contributing to a culture of fairness, authenticity, and belonging. Compensation The anticipated starting salary range is $70,500–$95,000 per year. Actual salary varies based on experience, skills, and location. Discretionary bonus or incentive compensation may be offered. Benefits Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans; dependents and domestic partners eligible. 20+ days of PTO annually, plus paid holidays and floating holidays. Daytime leave for community service and flextime for fitness activities (up to 10 hours/month). 401(k) retirement savings plan with company matching. Health savings account and other flexible spending accounts. Employee assistance program with counseling services. Wellness programs (gym discounts, sleep/meditation app access). Fertility treatment coverage and adoption assistance. Paid parental leave with phased return to work program. Support for nursing employees during travel. Pet health insurance discounts. Life, AD&D, and disability insurance. Financial wellness resources and employee discount program. Employee resource groups and advancement opportunities. Benefits take effect day one. Learn more at eab.com/careers/benefits. Open to U.S. candidates who do not require visa sponsorship. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and foster a workplace where all team members are valued and heard. #J-18808-Ljbffr