Research Operations Director

FHI 360

. Lead strategic and operational support of research initiatives across global health and development sectors .

Posted 11/2/2026full-timeRemote • United StatesLead💰 $152,000 - $170,600 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in managing complex research operations across global health and development sectors, with a strong focus on compliance, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. Proficient in utilizing project management tools and fostering collaboration among diverse teams to drive innovation and optimize workflows.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Master's Degree In Public Health10 Years Of Experience In Operations ManagementExpertise In Operational StrategyProficiency In Project Management ToolsFluent In English

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Operational StrategyRisk ManagementQuality AssuranceProject ManagementData SecurityResearch EthicsProcess AutomationMulti-Country Portfolio ManagementIRB ProcessesDonor Compliance

Soft Skills

LeadershipNegotiationStakeholder EngagementMentoringCollaboration

Tools & Technologies

Microsoft OfficeProject Management SoftwareData Systems

Certifications & Qualifications

Project Management Certification

Industry Keywords

Global HealthResearch AdministrationNGONon-Profit ResearchInternational Research Regulations

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead strategic and operational support of research initiatives across global health and development sectors
Oversee operational execution of a diverse research portfolio, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with ethical standards
Optimize workflows and manage shared resources
Interface with operations and enterprise services across the organization
Design and implement systems that streamline research operations across diverse geographies
Anticipate and mitigate risks related to research implementation, ethics, and data security
Drive innovation in research support services, including digital tools and process automation
Lead revision and enforcement of SOPs with research ethics, safeguarding, and data security/privacy teams
Participate in discussions with research partners, potential funders, and organizational leadership
Oversee development and execution of research project plans
Facilitate cross-functional working groups throughout research project lifecycles
Build relationships with country offices and integrate local context into operational planning
Mentor mid-level managers and foster collaboration and accountability
Implement project management tools and dashboards to track progress and performance
Lead post-project reviews and capture lessons learned
Oversee research teams and manage operations
Lead vendor identification and selection, oversight, and performance management
May supervise direct reports
Travel 5–10%

Requirements

What you’ll need

Master’s degree or its international equivalent in Public Health, Social Sciences, Research Administration, or a related field
Minimum of 10 years of experience in operations or project management
Demonstrated experience managing complex, multi-country portfolios
Fluent in English language
Experience in NGO or non-profit research settings
Relevant degree or its international equivalent, or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience
Understanding of global research operations, including IRB processes, donor compliance, and international research regulations
Expertise in operational strategy, risk management, and quality assurance in research settings
Strong leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills
Proficiency in project management tools and data systems used in research environments
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Project, Excel, and Word, with experience using project management software
Project Management (PM) certification preferred but not required
5 years’ experience in a leadership role preferred
Willingness to undergo reference, criminal record, terrorism finance, and misconduct disclosure screening checks

Benefits

Comp & perks

FHI 360 contributes 7% of monthly base pay to a money purchase pension plan account
18 days of paid vacation per year for US-based full-time staff
12 sick days per year for US-based full-time staff
11 holidays per year for US-based full-time staff
Competitive benefits package
Professional development
Policies and programs that support a healthy work/life balance