Methods Director – Quantitative Impact Evaluation

Methods Director – Quantitative Impact Evaluation

Location: London, Westminster (hybrid)

Contract: Permanent, full- or part-time

About Verian

Verian is a leading UK research and advisory agency, delivering high-impact projects that shape public policy and drive social change. From behaviour change programmes to national statistics, we work across sectors including education, health, crime, energy, and housing.

Our Evaluation Practice is the fastest-growing area of the business, reflecting the rising demand for robust evidence on policy effectiveness, particularly from the UK Government and the What Works Centre network. We specialise in complex, large-scale studies that combine sophisticated analysis with Verian’s world-class expertise in survey design and data collection.

About the Role

We’re looking for a Methods Director to help lead the design and delivery of our impact evaluation work. You’ll play a pivotal role in shaping evaluation proposals, applying suitable analytical techniques, and ensuring the methodological rigour of our studies.

You’ll join Verian’s specialist Methods team, collaborating closely with colleagues in the Evaluation Practice to design multi-stranded research studies, lead quantitative analysis, and interpret outcomes for our clients.

You will report to the Head of Methods and work closely with the Head of Quantitative Impact Evaluation (QIE) within the Evaluation Practice (a former member of the Methods team).

What You’ll Do

• Design evaluations with a strong focus on quantitative impact estimation and causal inference
• Lead analysis using advanced quantitative methods to estimate the effects of policies or programmes
• Support bids, writing compelling and technically sound methodological sections
• Drive innovation by exploring and applying emerging methods and techniques
• Enhance Verian’s profile through thought leadership, presentations, and publications
• Provide expert advice to colleagues across teams on methods and evaluation best practice

What You’ll Bring

• Proven experience designing and delivering quantitative impact evaluations, ideally for public sector clients
• Expertise in causal inference and quantitative impact estimation methods, with a strong working knowledge of the HMT Magenta Book
• Detailed working knowledge of survey data collection methods
• Excellent R (or SPSS) skills; comfortable working with large, imperfect datasets
• Strong communication skills: able to explain complex methods clearly to technical and non-technical audiences, both verbally and in writing
• A meticulous eye for detail and personal commitment to quality control
• A relevant first degree (ideally with a strong statistics component) or a Masters/doctorate in a relevant topic

Why Verian?

You’ll work on socially meaningful projects in a collaborative and supportive environment, with access to leading in-house and external experts.

We offer flexible and hybrid working, a commitment to wellbeing, and genuine opportunities for professional growth.

We value diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We’re happy to accommodate your needs throughout the recruitment process.

Ready to shape better public policy through rigorous evaluation?

Apply now and make your impact at Verian!