Research Director, Digital Economy

Location: Southwestern Ontario

The Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI) is an independent, non-partisan think tank whose peer-reviewed research, foresight and trusted analysis influence policy makers to innovate. With the engagement of a global network of experts and contributors, CIGI tackles the governance challenges and opportunities of data and transformative technologies, including AI, and their impact on the economy, security, democracy and, ultimately, societies.

CIGI delivers independent world-leading research and analysis to influence policy on cutting-edge issues that intersect transformative technologies and governance.

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the President, the Research Director, Digital Economy is responsible for the strategic development and execution of research programs aligned with the organization’s mandate. The role involves shaping and leading interdisciplinary research initiatives, fostering collaborations, contributing to the organization’s strategic planning and public profile, and leading staff, fellows, and affiliated researchers.

The Research Director, Digital Economy plays a central role in advancing the organization’s thought leadership, ensuring research excellence, and supporting a high-performance culture.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide strategic leadership on key research themes, identifying opportunities for policy impact and contributions.
• Lead and contribute to original research and analysis across a range of subject areas relevant to the organization’s mission.
• As a member of the Senior Management Team (SMT):
  • Contribute to the development of the organization’s strategic plan and annual Program of Work and Budget.
  • Support a culture of excellence, innovation, accountability, and integrity.
  • Foster cross-functional collaboration and represent organizational interests internally and externally.
• Oversee the development of the annual research framework and guide research activities accordingly.
• Serve as a mentor and facilitator for affiliated research fellows, post-docs, and student researchers.
• Regularly represent CIGI at external events and contribute to the organization’s visibility and influence through public speaking, publishing, and media engagement.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with national and international institutions, funders, and collaborators.
• Recruit and manage fellows and research staff to ensure alignment with the organization’s strategic goals.
• Support hiring, onboarding, and professional development for research staff.
• Oversee operational aspects of research programming, including planning, execution, and reporting.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATONS REQUIRED

• Graduate degree in public policy, political science, economics, international affairs, or a related discipline; a science or engineering background may be considered if combined with policy experience.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in applied research, policy analysis, or leadership within a think tank, academic, government, or non-profit setting.
• Proven ability to manage multi-disciplinary research teams and complex projects.
• Strong written communication abilities and comfort with engaging policy communities and the public.
• Deep understanding of the policy-making process and the role of independent research in influencing public debate.
• Skilled communicator with a track record of public speaking, media engagement, and stakeholder outreach.
• Strategic thinker with a collaborative leadership style and a commitment to research excellence and impact.
• High degree of professional integrity, adaptability, and emotional intelligence.

Note:

This position is based at our CIGI Campus in Waterloo, Ontario, where employees have a hybrid work environment which requires them to be in the office a minimum of 2 days per week.

Interested applicants are invited to submit a resume, cover letter and salary expectations to [email protected] . Applications received will be assessed as of January 24, 2026, and the position will remain open until filled. Incomplete applications may not be considered. We appreciate all candidates’ applications but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. This job posting is for an existing vacancy.

CIGI is committed to providing an inclusive, equitable and accessible environment. Our goal is to attract and retain highly talented employees from diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities. We are committed to providing accommodation to applicants throughout the recruitment and hiring process.

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