Upwork
The world’s work marketplace.
Managing Director, Research Institute
Location
United States
Posted
18 days ago
Salary
$202K - $338K / year
Bachelor DegreeEnglish
Job Description
• Set the research vision and strategic agenda for the Upwork Research Institute, ensuring alignment with business objectives and emerging macroeconomic trends.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the Institute across national media, op-eds, events, and social platforms—translating technical findings into compelling, accessible stories.
• Lead a team of researchers to produce data-rich insights and media-ready narratives.
• Develop flagship research reports, media campaigns, and editorial calendars that drive consistent, high-impact thought leadership.
• Build and scale partnerships with external academics, think tanks, trade groups, and research institutions to amplify our credibility and reach.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across sales, marketing, product, and analytics to embed research into Upwork’s growth and engagement strategies.
• Use AI tools to accelerate insight development, summarize large data sets, and enhance storytelling formats.
Job Requirements
- Proven track record leading teams responsible for large scale research programs. Bonus if related to economics, labor, or related fields.
- Background in economics, math, statistics or other highly quantitative field.
- Exceptional communicator with excellent written and verbal skills. Proven ability to translate complex economic concepts into compelling narratives for C-suite executives, media, policymakers, and general audiences.
- Keen analytical and editorial eye—you have a strong DNA for designing compelling research/studies, synthesizing data-driven stories, and an innate understanding of what makes a good story.
- Experience with statistical analysis, data access & manipulation tools, and data visualization toolkits/software.
- Experience preparing reports and/or providing thorough analysis, findings and predictions for report inclusion.
- Experience serving as spokesperson and comfortable representing research findings to media, policymakers, industry groups, and at conferences. Experience as a published author, regular columnist, or public intellectual a strong plus.
- Experience in fast-paced, high-growth environments; strong executive presence; proven track record of influencing and securing buy-in from stakeholders, particularly across Sales, Marketing, and Product.
- Experience working with media, trade groups, think tanks, regulatory and legislative bodies a plus.
- Passion for the future of work.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical coverage for you and your family
- Unlimited PTO
- 401(k) plan with matching
- 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan
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