Managing Director, Research (San Francisco/Hybrid)

We are seeking an experienced researcher to lead a team of mission‑driven professionals at the California Housing Partnership. The partnership helps lead the state’s work in addressing the affordable housing shortage by providing technical assistance, training, and policy leadership.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the President and CEO to plan, direct, and execute the partnership’s research agenda on technical issues related to affordable housing policy.
• Engage with leadership and key external stakeholders to understand research needs and priorities.
• Leverage and develop strategic partnerships with academic and non‑profit research organizations.
• Develop research methodologies and data management protocols that promote efficient project execution.
• Expand the partnership’s research publications, including blogs and briefings.
• Manage the research staff, fellows, interns, and grant/contracts.
• Secure contract and grant funding, manage client research projects, and pursue new funding opportunities.
• Oversee development and maintenance of data tools, dashboards, and automated data systems.
• Develop and disseminate findings through policy briefs, blogs, webinars, and other channels.
• Represent the partnership in external presentations and stakeholder meetings.
• Manage the department budget and track expenditures.

Qualifications

• PhD in economics, public policy, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 11 years of applied policy research in housing, including three years supervising staff.
• Demonstrated mastery of statistical principles and methods for data analysis.
• Clear written and oral communication skills for non‑technical audiences.
• Expert level proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Experience with AI tools or willingness to use them responsibly.
• Alignment with the partnership’s mission, equity values, and core values.
• Willingness to relocate to the San Francisco Bay Area and travel within California.

Compensation & Benefits

Starting salary $170,000–$187,500. The partnership offers annual performance‑based salary increases and competitive benefits.

Employment Type

Full‑time, exempt (Executive level)