WeAreAspire
Research Director (Higher Education)

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Are you a senior researcher with a background within the social and public sectors? Then you could be the perfect fit for this market research agency in this flexible role!
JOB TITLE: Research Director (Higher Education)
SALARY: Depending on Experience
LOCATION: London (Hybrid)
THE COMPANY
We are representing an independent social and market research agency, founded to help government understand business needs, now one of the UK's largest while remaining focused on public value and societal impact. They deliver end-to-end research, combining quantitative and qualitative insight with deep sector expertise to explain what's happening, why it matters, and how to respond.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
They are now looking for a Research Director to join their team:
KEY DUTIES
- Grow the higher education portfolio by developing client relationships, identifying opportunities and contributing to work-winning activity.
- Lead high-profile research supporting universities, policymakers, and higher education bodies to address key sector challenges.
- Strengthen the higher education offer through innovative research, thought leadership, networking, and understanding emerging sector priorities.
SKILLS & EXPERIENCE


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
- Strong higher education sector knowledge, understanding university priorities, stakeholders, strategic challenges, and the value of insight.
- Proven market research, consultancy, or professional services experience, with strong client relationship and stakeholder management skills.
- Confident communicator with experience developing proposals, supporting business growth, and translating complex issues for diverse audiences.
Interested in this Research Director role? Apply now and let's have a chat!
We Are Aspire Ltd are a Disability Confident Committed employer
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
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