Manager, Research, Public Policy and Evaluation (Data Specialist)
United Way Greater Toronto is looking for an experienced, strategic, and analytical, Manager, Research, Public Policy and Evaluation (Data Specialist), to join our team at our Toronto office.
Reporting to the Corporate Communications and Public Policy, the Manager, Research, Public Policy and Evaluation (Data Specialist) is responsible for conducting research, public policy and evaluation activities, with a focus on quantitative data collection and analysis, data monitoring and tracking, descriptive and predictive analytics and interpretation, and data visualization and reporting, in support of United Way's strategic directions and priorities.
What you’ll do:
- Contribute to social and policy research and evaluation projects, including conceptualization, design, selection of quantitative and qualitative methodology best suited to the lines of inquiry under study, information gathering, data analysis and visualization and report writing
- Monitor and update an internal data catalogue of relevant data available through third-party platforms and via partnerships and/or memberships
- Select and apply the appropriate qualitative and quantitative research methods required to carry out social, economic and policy research
- Develop clear evaluation plans, including data collection plans, and lead implementation and analysis of internal evaluations
- Perform simple to complex statistical analysis, including bivariate analysis, descriptive and inferential statistics, tests of significance, correlation, variability, and linear and multiple regression
- Perform spatial analysis, using ArcGIS
- Provide advice and coaching to colleagues on the development of research and evaluation plans, including data collection methods, analysis, and performance measurement tools
- Bring an assets-based and solutions-focused lens to all social and policy research projects
- Integrate United Way’s Equity and Reconciliation Action Plan goals into research, public policy and evaluation workplans. Coordinate, develop, initiate, and respond to information and data requests received from within the organization to allow for evidence-based and data-informed communications and policy
- Monitor major research activities and emerging evaluation practices relevant to United Way
- Prepare background reports and briefing notes on selected studies, reports, and articles
- Prepare briefing materials for senior management on research findings and their policy implications
- Assist in identifying and working with key partners to advance the organization's research, evaluation and public policy agenda
- Assist in the design of research and evaluation project proposals and work plans, and preparation of resource and budget estimates for projects undertaken by United Way
- Represent United Way on community, coalition and collaborative research, public policy and evaluation initiatives, as well as on external committees and working groups
- Participate in United Way projects and teams and work closely with colleagues in other units and departments
What you’ll need to be successful:
- 3 - 5 years of experience in qualitative and quantitative social science research and evaluation
- Advanced skills in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, SPSS, NVivo and ArcGIS; experience with Power Bl an asset
- Knowledge of current social, economic and policy research and public policy issues affecting the community services sector with a preference for expertise in economic and housing domains and neighbourhood change and revitalization
- Sound knowledge of the community services sector in the Greater Toronto area and of the socio-economic challenges facing the communities of Peel, Toronto, and York Region
- Demonstrated ability to conceptualize, plan, develop, implement research and/or evaluation projects
- Demonstrated ability to apply quantitative and qualitative research methods
- Demonstrated ability to perform descriptive, inferential, and predictive statistical analyses
- Highly developed analytical skills with ability to conduct research and use independent judgement to problem solve
- Ability to influence, negotiate and manage contentious issues to resolution
- Ability to coordinate and modify projects, and occasionally work with both internal and external stakeholders
- Proven organizational abilities and ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines under pressure
- Proven ability to take initiative and carry projects to completion with minimum supervision
- Excellent teamwork, interpersonal and constituent service skills including the ability to work respectfully and inclusively with a diverse employee population and multiple stakeholders
- Excellent attention to detail and proven track record of accuracy
- Strong communication skills (both written and verbal)
- Master's level degree or higher in the social sciences, computer science, data science or related field, or equivalent work-related experience preferred
- Experience working with Statistics Canada data sources is an asset
- Willingness to actively contribute to the organizational equity framework through participation in learning opportunities and implementing anti-oppressive, and anti-racist learnings into action internally and externally
Show us your Local Love. Come and do great work at United Way Greater Toronto!
Please apply no later than November 11, 2024.
We are committed to being transparent about our practices around pay. The salary range for this role will be shared with candidates who are being considered for it.
As part of our recruitment process, United Way Greater Toronto offers accommodation for applicants with disabilities. If we contact you about an opportunity, please let us know if you require accommodation.
About United Way Greater Toronto:
As the largest non-government funder of community services in the GTA, United Way Greater Toronto reinforces a crucial community safety net to support people living in poverty. United Way’s network of agencies and initiatives in neighbourhoods across Peel, Toronto and York Region works to ensure that everyone has access to the programs and services they need to thrive. Mobilizing community support, United Way’s work is rooted in ground-breaking research, strategic leadership, local advocacy and cross-sectoral partnerships committed to building a more equitable region and lasting solutions to the GTA’s greatest challenges.
Diversity & Inclusion:
United Way is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that reflects our diverse community to ensure we’re best equipped to serve it. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds and those who may need accommodation to apply to join our team. Our commitment to excellence in diversity goes beyond promoting equity. By incorporating a variety of experiences and perspectives, we create opportunities for innovative solutions and maximize the impact of our work.