Research Director

Research Director 

Boston Municipal Research Bureau 

Location: Boston, MA | Hybrid Work Environment 

About the Boston Municipal Research Bureau 

The Boston Municipal Research Bureau (BMRB) is an independent, non-partisan, member-supported organization dedicated to promoting efficient, effective, and responsible government in the City of Boston. Since 1932, BMRB has been a trusted voice in Boston's civic life, providing fact-based research, policy analysis, and advocacy on key municipal issues. 

Position Summary 

The Research Director will serve as the senior research leader at BMRB, responsible for shaping the Research Bureau’s research agenda, leading policy analysis, and producing timely, high-impact reports that inform policymakers, business leaders, civic organizations, and the public. The Research Director will report directly to the CEO and work closely with the Board of Directors and civic stakeholders to advance the Research Bureau’s mission during a pivotal time for municipal governance in Boston. 

The Research Bureau has new leadership and is looking to expand its research agenda and impact. The Research Director’s position offers the opportunity to lead research on critical issues such as public finance, education, housing, transportation, governance, and economic development while helping to chart the Research Bureau's strategic future. 

Key Responsibilities 

Research Leadership 

• Develop and execute a multi-year research agenda aligned with BMRB’s mission and responsive to Boston’s evolving civic landscape. 
• Lead the conceptualization, design, and implementation of research projects, including long-form policy studies and shorter policy briefs as well as data visualizations and social media messaging. 
• Ensure that all research is methodologically sound, non-partisan, and accessible to a broad audience. 

Content Development & Oversight 

• Oversee the drafting, editing, and production of research reports, policy briefs, testimony, presentations, and public statements. 
• Developing innovative means of visualizing and communicating data across multiple distribution channels.  
• Translate complex policy and fiscal data into clear, actionable insights for civic leaders, government officials, and the general public. 
• Maintain rigorous quality standards and ensure factual accuracy across all publications. 

Civic Engagement & Public Policy Influence 

• Represent BMRB in public forums, meetings, hearings, and civic events. 
• Build and sustain relationships with key stakeholders, including public officials and their staff, community organizations, academic institutions, media, and BMRB members. 
• Serve as a public spokesperson when appropriate, complementing the CEO’s role. 

Organizational Leadership & Collaboration 

• Supervise and mentor research staff, including analysts, fellows, co-ops, and interns. 
• Collaborate with the CEO on strategic planning, including identifying emerging policy issues and areas for BMRB leadership. 
• Contribute to development efforts, including grant proposals and fundraising for research initiatives. 

Data Management & Policy Analysis 

• Oversee the collection, management, and analysis of key data indicators on Boston’s financial status. 
• Apply quantitative and qualitative research methods to analyze city budgets, policy proposals, and governance practices. 
• Monitor and evaluate Boston’s fiscal health, public policies, and service delivery systems. 

Qualifications 

• Master’s degree in public policy, public administration, economics, political science, government, or a related field. 
• At least 6 years of progressive experience in policy research, public finance, municipal governance, or related sectors. 
• Proven track record of producing high-quality, impactful research and policy analysis. 
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with ability to distill complex issues for diverse audiences. 
• Strong leadership, project management, and supervisory experience. 
• Familiarity with Boston’s civic and governmental landscape strongly preferred. 
• Demonstrated commitment to non-partisan, fact-based research, and civic engagement. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office   
• Experience with data analysis tools such as R, Tableau or ArcGIS preferred. 

Critical Success Factors – First 12 Months 

• Establish credibility with key civic, governmental, and business stakeholders. 
• Produce a slate of impactful research reports aligned with BMRB’s strategic priorities. 
• Contribute meaningfully to BMRB’s long-term strategy refinement and organizational growth. 
• Build a collaborative, high-performing research team culture. 

Compensation 

Competitive salary, up to $95k, commensurate with experience, plus benefits 

To Apply 

Submit a resume and cover letter to contact@bmrb.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.