Head of Research

Founded in 1896 by the industry, the Publishers Association represents book and journal publishers in the UK. The UK publishing industry has a turnover of over £6bn, with export income accounting for 59% of revenues. It directly employs 29,000 people in the UK.

We exist to champion publishing to the wider world and to provide our members with the influence, insight and support they need to thrive. Our members are at the heart of our mission. We bring them together; provide them with the information they need; seek solutions to problems; and campaign to achieve them.

Job Description

The Publishers Association is looking to recruit an exceptional individual to a newly created position as Head of Research. The Head of Research role is responsible for leading, designing and delivering the ambitious research and statistics programme for the Publishers Association. You will be:

• Managing the Association's thought-leadership research projects with external consultancies, political think tanks and other providers
• Running the day-to-day relationship with the external statistics providers specialising in the publishing market, including relating to the annual publication of the Publishers Association Yearbook
• Curating industry data for the Association on key issues of topical interest, for example, piracy, international trade in books, diversity and inclusion, sector sales, or geographical literacy rates
• Conducting anti-piracy research and analysis, for example, examining developments in book and journal piracy, market trends and changing consumer habits
• Surveying the membership (including survey design) and collating statistical feedback on key issues of importance to publishers
• Liaising, on behalf of the Publishers Association, with key officials at international bodies, government and devolved bodies (e.g. WIPO, DCMS, HM Treasury, Intellectual Property Office) on research and data
• Producing industry insight to inform the Association's government relations, policy and public affairs, legal and anti-piracy work

The Successful Applicant

• Excellent research and numerical skills, including a background in delivering both quantitative and qualitative research
• A proven ability to work with statistics, either in previous roles or through educational qualifications
• Excellent written skills and ability to write briefings on key topics
• Strong project management and organisational skills - with ability to work to tight deadlines while maintaining attention to detail
• Good team player with ability to work collaboratively
• Good IT skills, including working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365 package
• 5-10 years' experience of working in the creative industries, for a membership organisation, or in a public policy or research and statistics role

What's on Offer

£50,000 - £60,000 PA DOE plus benefits