Thought Leadership and Research Associate

The Opportunity

This position plays a crucial role in supporting the development and implementation of our organization's thought leadership initiatives and research projects. You will conduct research, analyze data, assist in content development, and contribute to the organization's efforts to generate knowledge, insights, and evidence-based solutions. This role requires strong detail orientation, analytical skills, a passion for research, and the desire to contribute to social impact through thought leadership.

Responsibilities

Thought Leadership Strategy and Execution:

• Work as a thought partner with subject matter experts to develop and execute Thought Leadership initiatives, supporting the organization's strategic objectives.

• Participate in all stages of TL development, from ideation and research through production.

• Conduct research, synthesize information, and contribute to the creation of thought leadership content, such as reports, articles, and presentations.

• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to gather input, validate findings, and ensure alignment with organizational goals.

• Support the organization's engagement with subject matter experts, researchers, and other thought leaders in relevant fields.

• Assist in organizing and coordinating meetings, workshops, and conferences related to thought leadership and research activities.

Writing and Editing:

• Lead the writing and editing on specific projects to produce top-quality content, ensuring copy meets quality standards: polished prose, clear structure, logical, engaging, fact-based, and relevant to the audience.

• Draft research reports, articles, blog posts, and other knowledge products based on research findings and insights.

• Collaborate cross functionally to prepare compelling and impactful content for dissemination through various channels.

Research and Data Analysis:

• Conduct in-depth research and analysis on relevant topics, using a variety of sources such as academic journals, reports, and surveys.

• Collect and analyze data, applying appropriate research methodologies and statistical techniques to generate insights and findings.

Data Management and Reporting:

• Organize, maintain, and evolve research databases, data repositories, and knowledge management systems, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and confidentiality of data.

• Effectively communicate research findings, proposals, and progress reports to internal and external stakeholders through presentations and written reports, ensuring that proposals are rooted in rigorous research, data analysis, and a clear implementation plan.

• Monitor and evaluate the impact of thought leadership initiatives, collecting data and preparing performance metrics.

• Stay updated on current industry trends, research methodologies, and share knowledge and expertise internally to contribute to thought leadership initiatives.

Candidate Profile

The following offers an aspirational view of the ideal candidate profile.

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, public policy, or a related discipline. Master’s degree or professional working experience preferred

• Creative thinker, who can work with Ascend subject-matter experts to shape original, provocative and compelling story lines; self-motivated, flexible problem solver, who likes to work collaboratively with a small team

• Strong research skills, including the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data from various sources.

• Proficiency in using research tools and software, as well as statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS, Excel, or R).

• Working knowledge of SQL, Power BI, Tableau, advanced Excel, and Python preferred

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas in a clear and concise manner.

• Proven ability to produce finished copy on deadline while working with a variety of writers and SMEs

• Proficiency in using productivity tools and software, including Microsoft Office and Google Workspace..

• Familiarity with knowledge management systems and digital collaboration platforms is a plus.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and build effective relationships with stakeholders.

• Ethical conduct and commitment to maintaining confidentiality and data security.

• Successful completion of background checks required upon hire

Employment Details

• Full Time, Salary/Exempt position with a starting salary of 55,000-$75,000

• Generous benefit program including 100% employer paid Medical/Dental and Vision insurance for employees.

• Ascend is a remote organization with a highly collaborative geographically distributed team. This position will be based remotely in the U.S.

• Occasional travel to support and attend events outside of regular business hours (typically no more than 5%).