Shape the Future of Public-Interest Research.
Some leadership opportunities ask you to inherit an established research program.
Others invite you to build one.
MDR Strategy Group is seeking an accomplished scholar and executive leader to become the inaugural Director, Research, Insights & Intelligence, responsible for leading MDRinsights, our recently launched and dedicated research, insights, and intelligence practice.
Working alongside the CEO and senior leadership team, you will shape the research agenda, oversee major national and international studies, establish strategic partnerships, recruit and lead a multidisciplinary research team, and help position MDRinsights among the world’s leading sources of research, benchmarking, and strategic intelligence for organizations advancing the public interest.
This is an opportunity to build a legacy.
About MDRinsights
MDRinsights was established to generate the research, benchmarking, intelligence, and practical insights organizations need to make informed decisions.
Through original research, environmental scanning, public and stakeholder research, benchmarking studies, strategic intelligence, and data analysis, MDRinsights will provide evidence that strengthens governance, improves organizational performance, builds public confidence, and supports better decision-making.
Our initial work will focus on professional occupations and professional regulation, with a long-term vision of expanding across the broader public, health, association, and non-profit sectors. Learn more at www.mdrstrategy.ca.
The Opportunity
MDR Strategy Group is conducting a worldwide search for an exceptional scholar and executive leader. We recognize that individuals who combine distinguished academic credentials, executive leadership experience, strategic judgement, international credibility, and an entrepreneurial mindset are rare. We are prepared to search globally to find the right person. The anticipated appointment date is early 2027, allowing time to identify the candidate whose experience, leadership, and vision best align with the future of MDRinsights.
As the inaugural Director, Research, Insights & Intelligence, you will lead the establishment and growth of MDRinsights.
Working directly with the CEO, you will develop the organization’s research agenda, oversee major research initiatives, publish original research, build partnerships with universities, governments, associations, and other organizations, and recruit a high-performing multidisciplinary research team.
You will represent MDR Strategy Group and MDRinsights through publications, keynote presentations, executive briefings, media opportunities, and presentations at local, national, and international conferences.
As a member of the senior leadership team, you will also contribute to organizational strategy, business development, and the long-term growth of the firm.
Qualifications
The successful candidate will possess a PhD from a recognized university together with a distinguished record of scholarly publication, research excellence, and applied research.
You are an accomplished scholar with demonstrated expertise in public-interest research and significant knowledge of professional occupations and professional regulation.
You have successfully led complex research initiatives, multidisciplinary teams, and organizational priorities, and possess experience advising CEOs, executive leadership teams, Boards of Directors, governments, and other senior decision-makers.
You combine academic excellence with practical leadership and are recognized for translating complex research into practical recommendations that inform organizational strategy, governance, policy, and performance.
You possess an entrepreneurial mindset and are energized by the opportunity to build something new. You enjoy identifying opportunities, developing strategic partnerships, and contributing to the long-term success of a growing organization.
An established record of presenting at local, national, and international conferences is essential.
Exceptional written and spoken English is required. French language proficiency is considered an asset.
Compensation & Benefits
MDR Strategy Group offers a highly competitive executive compensation package commensurate with qualifications, experience, and demonstrated achievement. Compensation is intended to be competitive with comparable executive leadership positions and senior tenured academic appointments.
The successful candidate will also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:
Additional terms and conditions of employment will be discussed with the successful candidate as part of the appointment process.
Appointment
The preferred appointment is a full-time, three-year term commencing in early 2027.
Applications are also welcomed from distinguished scholars holding a tenured academic appointment who are seeking a one-year sabbatical. This provides a unique opportunity to help establish MDRinsights, lead major research initiatives, publish meaningful work, and contribute to building a globally respected research, insights, and intelligence practice before returning to their home institution.
Why Join MDR Strategy Group?
This is more than a leadership position.
It is an opportunity to create something lasting.
As the founding Director, Research, Insights & Intelligence, you will help build a globally respected research practice, influence important conversations affecting organizations serving the public interest, and contribute to work that informs better governance, stronger organizations, and more effective decision-making.
Executive Brief
An Executive Brief containing additional information about MDR Strategy Group, MDRinsights, the position, compensation, and the long-term vision for the practice is available upon request.
How to Apply
This executive search is being conducted by RegulatoryJobs Executive Search.
To apply, please click APPLY NOW to submit your cover letter and curriculum vitae as a single document outlining your interest in the position and the experience, qualifications, and leadership you would bring to MDRinsights.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received and will remain open until the position is filled.
MDR Strategy Group welcomes applications from qualified candidates around the world and is committed to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace where diverse perspectives strengthen our work and the organizations we serve.