Institute for Portfolio Alternatives
Director of Research
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Director of Research
Director of Research – Institute for Portfolio Alternatives
The Institute for Portfolio Alternatives (IPA) is seeking a Director of Research to launch and lead the organization’s new data and research initiative.
This is a founding role for an ambitious professional who can build a high-quality knowledge platform from the ground up. The successful candidate will serve as the lead intellectual architect and principal author of IPA’s research outputs, combining quantitative analysis with insightful qualitative narrative to deliver reports, studies, and actionable insights for IPA members and the broader alternatives industry.
The role requires:
- Strong analytical capability
- Exceptional writing and communication skills
- Sound judgment and independence
- Ability to build credibility with stakeholders with professionalism
Based in Washington, D.C., IPA operates 100% remotely, with up to 15% travel expected. UK-based applicants are encouraged.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development of IPA’s research and knowledge platform, ensuring it delivers original, rigorous, and actionable insights to the alternatives industry.
- Serve as the principal research professional, managing the full research lifecycle (topic identification, data analysis, writing, and publication), while leveraging AI tools to enhance efficiency.
- Align research priorities with IPA’s strategic goals and member needs, collaborating with leadership, committees, sponsors, and external experts.
- Produce high-quality research, including:
- Quarterly outlooks
- Thematic studies
- Benchmarking reports
- Annual flagship reports
- Establish and maintain research standards, ensuring AI tools are used responsibly while preserving independent analysis and editorial oversight.
- Engage directly with members, sponsors, and stakeholders to gather insights and enhance value.
- Monitor and interpret developments across private markets, capital markets, regulations, tax, retirement, and related fields, presenting findings clearly for decision-making.
- Oversee external research partners, data providers, academics, and consultants, ensuring effective collaboration and quality control.
- Support broader association initiatives, including:
- Conferences and board meetings
- Member engagement activities
- Stakeholder events related to research
- Advise the President & CEO and senior leadership on emerging industry trends and research findings.
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Required Experience & Qualifications
Professional Experience
- 5+ years of relevant experience in research, analysis, or thought leadership, preferably producing original reports or publications in:
- Finance
- Investments
- Economics
- Or a closely related field
Education & Industry expertise
- Advanced degree (Master’s, MBA, or PhD) in:
- Economics
- Finance
- Public policy
- A closely related field
- CFA designation is a plus
- Strong comprehension of the alternatives investment industry, including:
- Private equity
- Real estate
- Infrastructure
- Private credit
- Hedge funds
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Technical skills
- Proficient with AI-powered research, data analysis, and productivity tools
Qualities Sought
✔ Initiative and independence to found a new research function in a fast-paced environment.
✔ Intellectual curiosity, strong writing, and attention to detail.
✔ Professional credibility to engage senior executives, members, sponsors, and partners.
✔ Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
Reporting Relationship
- Reports to: President & CEO
Compensation
US Candidates
- Total compensation (base salary + bonus): $145,000 – $175,000 (Commensurate with experience, with potential for growth.)
UK Candidates
- Total compensation (base salary + bonus): £95,000 – £125,000 (Commensurate with experience, with potential for growth.)
About the IPA
For over 40 years, the Institute for Portfolio Alternatives (IPA) has been the leading voice for global asset managers, distributors, and service providers in private markets and alternative investments.
Mission & Impact
- Delivers best-in-class education for industry professionals.
- Champions policies to expand private market access—strengthening retirement outcomes, portfolio diversification, and economic growth.
- Manages over $1 trillion in invested capital, supporting asset classes like:
- Real estate
- Credit
- Infrastructure
- Private equity
- Venture capital
For more information: www.ipa.com
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