Associate Director – Research, Insights & Strategy (RI&S)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced research and policy leader to head STEP's Research, Insights & Strategy (RI&S) vertical. RI&S is STEP's evidence engine — the team responsible for generating the data, analysis and institutional recommendations that anchor STEP's credibility with government and industry.

What you'll do

• Serve as STEP's primary research and technical interface with MSDE, NCVET and NITI Aayog — shaping reform recommendations and representing STEP in government and…
• Design and uphold STEP's research methodology and analytical rigour — ensuring findings are evidence-based, decision-ready
• Translate field research and stakeholder consultations (district officials, industry, implementation partners) into structured
• Working knowledge of India's skilling and workforce-development ecosystem (MSDE, NCVET, NSQF, labour market data landscape) is a strong plus
• Demonstrated experience engaging senior government stakeholders and translating research into policy-relevant recommendations

What you need

• 14–25 yrs of experience
• Research
• Data analysis
• Demand planning
• Any graduate