The position entails a diverse array of responsibilities, focusing on delivering outstanding results within established parameters. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in requisite technical skills, possess exceptional problem-solving capabilities, and exhibit a proactive approach to team collaboration. Prior experience in a similar capacity is essential, along with a strong aptitude for multitasking and adapting to dynamic environments. The role demands meticulous attention to detail, effective communication, and a commitment to continuous professional development.
The Research Lead will spearhead the strategic direction of IIF’s research and knowledge development initiatives, delivering rigorous research, actionable insights, and influential publications that enhance the impact investing landscape in Nigeria and broader Africa. This position will advance policy advocacy, ecosystem analysis, institutional thought leadership, and data-driven evidence generation to shape sustainable development priorities while improving the precision and effectiveness of investment decisions and outcomes across the market.
The Research Lead will assemble and oversee a high-performing research team, integrating interns and volunteers, and cultivating an environment marked by excellence, teamwork, and forward-thinking innovation. Reporting directly to the CEO, this position will collaborate extensively with program, partnership, communications, and external stakeholder teams.
Oversee core operational duties, including strategic planning, team leadership, and cross-departmental coordination to ensure seamless workflow efficiency. Develop and implement policies that align with organizational objectives while fostering an environment of accountability and continuous improvement. Monitor performance metrics to identify areas for optimization and drive data-driven decision-making. Collaborate with senior leadership to align departmental goals with broader company vision, ensuring sustainable growth and innovation. Maintain compliance with industry regulations and internal standards, mitigating risks and upholding ethical business practices. Serve as a primary liaison for stakeholders, addressing concerns and facilitating transparent communication to strengthen partnerships.
Spearhead the creation, deployment, and ongoing enhancement of IIF’s research agenda, guaranteeing its full alignment with the Foundation’s strategic priorities and broader ecosystem objectives.
Develop, strategize, and oversee comprehensive research initiatives spanning impact investing, sustainable and blended finance, ESG, philanthropy, and allied fields—such as the annual market sizing analysis of Nigeria’s impact investment sector, the Nigerian Impact Economy Index, and quarterly economic forecasts—while ensuring prompt, high-caliber deliverables.
Develop and implement robust research frameworks, methodologies, and detailed work plans, ensuring rigorous quality-assurance processes for both quantitative and qualitative studies, including surveys, interviews, desk reviews, ecosystem mapping, and data analysis.
Develop research-derived deliverables—including the Nigeria Impact Economy Index, reports, policy briefs, market intelligence, ecosystem analyses, insights papers, and thought leadership—to transform findings into practical tools that guide program design, advocacy initiatives, and strategic decisions among key stakeholders.
Construct and guide a top-tier research team, alongside external partners, fostering a dynamic environment of growth, accountability, and innovation while ensuring timely project delivery and continuous professional advancement.
Forge and nurture high-impact alliances with universities, development organizations, researchers, policymakers, and key ecosystem actors to deepen collaborative knowledge-sharing and amplify institutional impact; serve as IIF’s external ambassador at conferences, policy forums, stakeholder meetings, and elite platforms, guaranteeing that all research initiatives bolster the Foundation’s prominence, trustworthiness, and leadership within the ecosystem.
Maintain institutional learning by managing knowledge systems and repositories, fostering cross-team collaboration, and ensuring research outputs align with and enhance IIF’s strategic objectives.
What We’re Looking For
A master’s degree in Economics, Public Policy, Development Studies, Finance, Research, Social Sciences, Statistics, or a related discipline is required, with a PhD considered advantageous.
A minimum of a decade-and-a-half of pertinent professional experience is required, with a demonstrated track record in leadership roles encompassing research, policy formulation, strategic planning, or ecosystem development.
Experienced in overseeing research projects and delivering meticulously crafted research reports and insightful knowledge products.
We seek a candidate with exceptional research, analytical, writing, and presentation abilities, capable of developing persuasive narratives from complex data to establish thought leadership and drive knowledge translation.
Proficient in the impact investing ecosystem, blended finance mechanisms, sustainable development strategies, ESG principles, philanthropic frameworks, and development finance models, with a strong grasp of global standards such as the SDGs, IRIS+, GAIN, IFC Operating Principles, and OECD guidelines.
Professionals should possess a comprehensive understanding of Nigeria’s and Africa’s investment landscapes, encompassing their regulatory frameworks, key market participants, and dynamic ecosystems to effectively navigate and leverage opportunities within these regions.
Adept at assessing policy landscapes and evolving regulatory frameworks, with a keen grasp of how policies shape capital movements and market expansion. Proficient in translating complex ecosystem dynamics into strategic, actionable intelligence.
Market Intelligence Gathering and Monitoring: Proficient in accessing and utilizing datasets from reputable sources such as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and other relevant databases.
Successfully led teams, managed projects, mentored interns, and coordinated research collaborations.
Proficient at distilling intricate data and concepts into concise, strategic recommendations that drive informed decision-making.
Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
Integrity, professionalism, and dedication to IIF’s mission are essential attributes.
We seek candidates with a demonstrated ability to perform tasks with a high degree of skill and accuracy. A strong understanding of relevant tools, methodologies, and best practices is required to excel in this role. The ideal applicant will possess the capacity to adapt to evolving demands while maintaining efficiency and attention to detail. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within a team are essential for success in this position.
The position demands that the Lead Researcher possess strong expertise in the following areas:
Data Analysis & Statistics: Proficiency in advanced analytics using R, Python, or State, statistical modeling with SPSS or SAS, and expert-level Excel for financial and market modeling is required.
Data visualization proficiency is required, with expertise in tools such as Power BI, Tableau, Looker Studio, or Excel dashboards.
Qualitative research and data management expertise is essential, including proficiency in Vivo, Atlas. Ti, or Depose for qualitative analysis, along with survey tools such as KoboToolbox, Qualtrics, and SurveyMonkey.
Professional candidates are encouraged to forward their CV and a personalized cover letter to hr@impactinvestorsfoundation.org, ensuring the subject line specifies “Application – Research Lead.”
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA , PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
10 - 15 years
