Director, Research & InsightsLocation: Lake Mary, FL (Hybrid)
Department: Research & Insights
Reports To: Vice President, IA Foundation & Professional Pathways
Status: Full-Time | Exempt
Position SummaryThe Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) is seeking a strategic and hands-on
Director, Research & Insights to lead the Internal Audit Foundation's research agenda and strengthen the IIA's position as the leading authority on internal audit research and thought leadership.
In this leadership role, you will establish the Foundation's research strategy, oversee a portfolio of quantitative and qualitative research initiatives, collaborate with global partners and academic advisors, and transform complex data into meaningful insights that advance the internal audit profession. As both a leader and individual contributor, you will manage a small team while personally leading high-impact research projects from concept through publication.
Work ArrangementThis is a
hybrid position based in
Lake Mary, Florida, combining in-office collaboration with remote work.
What You'll Do- Develop and execute the Foundation's annual research agenda in alignment with organizational priorities and the advancement of the internal audit profession.
- Lead end-to-end research projects, including research design, data collection, statistical analysis, report development, and publication.
- Partner with the Committee of Research and Education Advisors (CREA), research sponsors, academic institutions, and external organizations to support strategic research initiatives.
- Ensure research methodologies are rigorous, reliable, and aligned with industry best practices.
- Analyze quantitative and qualitative data to produce actionable insights and thought leadership for internal and external stakeholders.
- Present research findings and strategic updates to executive leadership, board members, conferences, and industry audiences.
- Supervise, mentor, and develop the Research & Insights team while fostering collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
- Serve as an enterprise subject matter expert on research methodology, data interpretation, and industry trends.
QualificationsRequired Qualifications- Master's degree in Research, Business, Education, Data Analytics, Social Sciences, Statistics, or a related field.
- 7+ years of experience in research, analytics, higher education, professional associations, or a related field.
- Demonstrated experience designing and leading quantitative and qualitative research projects.
- Experience managing research initiatives from planning through publication.
- Strong knowledge of statistical analysis and research methodologies.
- Experience using research and survey platforms such as Qualtrics, Verint, SPSS, Q, or similar analytical tools.
- Exceptional analytical, writing, presentation, and storytelling skills with the ability to communicate insights to executive audiences.
- Proven leadership, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Preferred Qualifications- Experience working within a professional association, nonprofit, higher education institution, or member-based organization.
- Experience collaborating with advisory committees, academic partners, or research sponsors.
- Knowledge of governance, risk management, internal audit, or professional certification environments.
- Experience presenting research findings at conferences, webinars, or executive forums.
- Proficiency in additional languages is a plus.
