Research, Reflection & Evaluating Head

SmartStart is a successful national network of NGOs & partners realising quality, affordable early learning for all 3-5 year olds — through scaling a network of providers, and achieving specific ecosystem transformations with governments and partners.

About the Job

The Head of Research, Reflection & Evaluating at SmartStart will establish and lead a new department focused on generating, sharing, and applying knowledge to improve early childhood development practices and outcomes. The role involves designing and managing research and evaluation programmes, building partnerships, and fostering reflective practice and evaluative thinking across the network. It requires strategic leadership in developing research agendas and methodologies to inform learning and innovation within SmartStart. The position combines academic rigour with practical impact, contributing to SmartStart’s mission of extending quality early learning access at scale.

Key Responsibilities

• Knowledge Creation & Sharing

Lead SmartStart’s approach to identifying, creating, nurturing, and sharing knowledge across the network and ecosystem.

Develop and lead a multi-year research and evaluation agenda focused on practical use and learning.

Serve as an Exco member, contributing to SmartStart’s strategic leadership and coherence.

Build and lead the Research & Evaluating department, including staff, contractors, and consultants.

Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

Specific Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

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