Economic Inclusion Researcher / Coordinator

The Canadian Poverty Institute is currently seeking candidates to lead strategic initiatives related to economic inclusion. This will involve managing two research projects and providing support to associated stakeholder Roundtables. The two currently funded initiatives include:

a) New Economy Roundtable – This established network of public and private employers and non-profit organizations seeks to promote inclusive business practices, with a focus on the Greater Toronto Area. The current research project examines the barriers to adoption of inclusive business practices among Small and Medium Sized Employers (SMEs).

b) Fair Access to Insurance Roundtable (FAIR) – This established network of stakeholders from the Insurance industry and related sectors seeks to increase access to insurance among marginalized populations. The current research project associated with this Roundtable is to advance the development of an inclusive insurance strategy for Canada.

Responsibilities

This position will be responsible for supporting the Roundtables and leading the associated research projects. Responsibilities will include:

1. Coordinate and facilitate meetings of the Roundtables and manage stakeholder relationships.

2. Lead the research process including all aspects of qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis, and overall project management.

3. Manage the research ethics approval process and ensure adherence to ethical protocols.

4. Prepare interim and final research reports for internal use and external publication.

5. Communicate regularly with funders.

6. Support and oversee the work of a Research Assistant.

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Strong qualitative research design and implementation skills including survey design, interviews and focus groups, and awareness of research ethics protocols.
• Ability to work independently.
• Strong relationship management and facilitation skills.
• Excellent analytical skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.

Knowledge and Experience

• Awareness of the principles of Knowledge Mobilization.
• An understanding of the concept of inclusive insurance is an asset.
• Experience leading applied research projects working with stakeholder advisory committees.
• A university degree in a relevant discipline.
• Knowledge of the principles of economic inclusion and the barriers faced by lower-income or vulnerable populations.
• An understanding of the role of business in creating inclusive economies, including awareness of the concepts of shared value and inclusive business.
• Knowledge of the issues and literature on poverty in Canada.

Employment Conditions

• This position reports to the Director of the Canadian Poverty Institute and the Senior Researcher.
• Hours: 30 hrs / week
• While office space exists within the university, remote work is also an option.
• Compensation: $32.00 / hr.
• This is a limited term (12 month) position with the possibility of renewal depending on funding.
• The Canadian Poverty Institute is located in Calgary and housed within Ambrose University.
• Some travel may be required