Principal Advisor, Research

About the role
- Are you an expert in research, evaluation and implementation science? Are you passionate about pioneering new models of evaluation and creating lasting and effective social change? Are you interested in joining a diverse, global team that values its people, nurtures professional growth and emphasizes collaboration? If so, the CEI team would love to hear from you._

Location: Sydney (hybrid)

Remuneration: $120 - $140k plus super

What will the Principal Advisor - Research and Evaluation do?

As the Principal Advisor for Research & Evaluation, you will lead a portfolio of CEI projects that span key strategic activities - including evaluation, evidence synthesis, and advancing implementation science.

Leading teams of research and evaluation specialists, you will:

- Lead research and evaluation initiatives to inform policy and practice designed to improve the health and wellbeing of people and communities facing adversity.
- Design and execute evaluation frameworks, including designing data collection and analysis protocols.
- Collaborate with multi-sectoral stakeholders including government agencies and individuals with lived experience.
- Work cross-disciplinarily with both internal and external teams across diverse geographies.
- Manage consortia of research specialists across academic and consultancy partners.
- Manage all facets of project governance, including team coordination, planning, and budget oversight.
- Foster team development and cohesiveness, while aiding in the professional growth of team members.
- Contribute to the business development and strategic growth of CEI.
- Represent CEI externally, acting as an advocate and thought leader in the field.

What makes me great for this role?

As a seasoned and dynamic professional, your passion for impactful work shines through in your commitment to methodological rigor and evidence-driven solutions.

Your credentials Include:

- A postgraduate research degree in psychology, health, social science, economics, or a related field, with a minimum of 5 years’ experience in research and evaluation design, including quantitative methods and hybrid design.
- At least two years of experience in supervising and mentoring junior staff or colleagues across various roles.
- A proven ability to show initiative and employ creative approaches in the conduct of research and evaluations.
- Outstanding communication skills, demonstrated by your history of crafting impactful reports for policy, service, and academic audiences, as well as delivering presentations tailored to diverse stakeholders.
- Experience in project management, including the ability to establish priorities, meet deadlines, and manage budgets effectively.
- Experience in successfully disseminating research findings and a portfolio that highlights policy-relevant, translational research or evaluations.
- A track record of successfully securing funding through grants or competitive tenders.
- Resilience, adaptability, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

Why work for CEI?

This is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to lead groundbreaking research and evaluation that shapes public policy and fosters social change. Being part of the CEI family offers:

- Purposeful Impact: Drive transformative societal change with robust evidence.
- Diversity: Embrace a culture rich in diverse experiences and values.
- Development: Enjoy continuous opportunities for professional growth.
- Influence: Make tangible contributions in a dynamic setting.
- Global Reach: Collaborate with our international teams in London, Singapore and Norway and work on projects that span continents.
- Community & Collaboration: Thrive in a culture that balances challenging work with fun.
- Career Partnership: Build a lasting career in a supportive environment where we are invested in your journey.
- Work Benefits: Enjoy an extra week of leave, a competitive salary and salary packaging.
- Flexibility: Hybrid work model with an office in Sydney’s CBD.

How do I apply?

Please submit your CV and cover letter highlighting your alignment with the position competencies, in one PDF document.

Note - while you’re not required to address each competency individually, we encourage you to illustrate how you satisfy as many of the job-related, personal, and qualification competencies as you can.

Please note: The Centre for Evidence and Implementation (CEI) is a subsidiary of Save the Children Australia, a child-safe organisation. All employees are required to undergo a National Police Check and sign our Child Protection Policy and Code of Conduct.

CEI is committed to diversity and inclusion

Please submit your CV and cover letter highlighting your alignment with the position competencies, in one PDF document.

Note - while you're not required to address each competency individually, we encourage you to illustrate how you satisfy as many of the job-related, personal, and qualification compet