Vice President of Research
Position Description
Heartland Forward seeks a results-driven Vice President (VP) of Research to lead Heartland groundbreaking work at the intersection of economics, policy and community development. In this role, the VP will design and oversee research that delivers clear, actionable insights—guiding decisions that strengthen economies, shape public policy and foster sustainable growth across the heartland. The VP will lead a high-impact research team that serves as a trusted resource for states and local communities, providing the data and analysis needed to drive meaningful change. We are looking for a proven leader with the vision and expertise to turn big ideas into measurable outcomes for the American heartland.
Summary
The Vice President of Research will shape and drive Heartland Forward’s applied research agenda across three critical impact areas:
- Regional Competitiveness
- Building the Talent Pipeline
- Health & Wellness
Reporting directly to the president, the VP will lead a talented research team internally and with external fellows - working across the organization to transform findings into actionable insights and data-driven policy and economic solutions.
This role is the bridge between the “think” and the “do” in our think-and-do tank—turning rigorous analysis into innovative strategies, practical tools and measurable change for states and communities across the heartland.
The VP will develop and execute a strategic research plan that informs policy at the state, regional and local levels, while cultivating partnerships that advance innovation, entrepreneurship and economic opportunity.
The VP will serve as a visible leader and trusted voice for regional development—elevating the Heartland’s economic narrative, equipping stakeholders with resources and ensuring research directly drives impact.
This is a pivotal opportunity for a visionary leader who can pair intellectual rigor with real-world results, positioning Heartland Forward as a national model for turning research into action.
Responsibilities
- Drive Research Excellence– Develop and lead Heartland Forward’s research agenda and strategy, ensuring it advances the mission and delivers measurable impact across our strategic priorities.
- Build and Inspire a High-Performing Team– Recruit, retain, manage and mentor outstanding researchers and cultivate strong collaborations with external research partners.
- Deliver Actionable Insights– Design and oversee studies that produce rigorous, data-driven analysis on economic and community development in the heartland, translating findings into practical policy solutions and/or positive impact.
- Communicate with Influence– Transform complex research into accessible, compelling reports, briefs, op-eds and presentations that resonate with a wide range of audiences.
- Integrate Research Across the Organization– Partner with program, communications events and advocacy teams to ensure research informs and strengthens every Heartland Forward initiative.
- Lead in the Public Arena– Serve as a visible thought leader and trusted resource - presenting research to media, policymakers and stakeholders - representing Heartland Forward at high-profile convenings and meetings.
- Forge Strategic Partnerships– Identify and cultivate innovative research collaborations with academic institutions, civic leaders, private sector organizations and Heartland Forward partners.
- Shape Organizational Strategy– Serve on the Heartland Forward leadership team - contributing to strategic planning, performance measurement and the overall direction of Heartland Forward.
- Collaborate with EVP of partnerships to align fundraising strategies and grant proposals with programmatic priorities.
- Uphold Research Integrity– Maintain the highest standards of data quality, ethics and transparency in all research activities.
- Budget Management - Lead and manage the research budget and reporting requirements, ensuring fiscal responsibility, transparency and alignment with organizational priorities.
Required Qualifications:
- Proven Leadership Experience– Minimum of 10 years leading complex, high-impact research initiatives in economics, advocacy, regional development or a closely related field, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
- Track Record of Impact– Demonstrated success translating research into real-world change, community initiatives or strategic decision-making at state, regional or national levels.
- Team-Building Excellence– Experience recruiting, managing and mentoring high-performing research teams, including oversight of external consultants and academic partners.
- Exceptional Communication Skills– Ability to synthesize complex findings into clear, compelling narratives for policymakers, media, funders and the public.
- Strategic Vision– Expertise in developing and executing long-term research strategies that align with organizational goals and drive measurable outcomes.
- Partnership Development– Proven ability to cultivate and sustain high-value relationships with leaders in government, academia, philanthropy and the private sector.
- Analytical and Methodological Expertise– Mastery of quantitative and qualitative research methods, economic and policy analysis and data interpretation.
- Commitment to Integrity– Deep dedication to research ethics, methodological rigor and transparent reporting.
Preferred:
- PhD in economics, public policy, regional studies or related field (or equivalent experience demonstrating academic and professional rigor).
- Experience working in a think-tank, policy institute or other applied research environment with a “think-and-do” model.
- Media experience as a recognized thought leader, including public speaking, op-eds, and participation in high-profile convenings.
- Familiarity with the economic and social dynamics of the American heartland.
- Experience securing research funding or managing grants.
Characteristics that support success:
- Unquestionable ethics and integrity.
- Must be a self-starter who takes initiative.
- Ability to meet deadlines, prioritize assignments and juggle multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Effective independently and in a semi-remote environment.
- Demonstrated ability to protect privacy and maintain discretion in dealing with highly confidential information.
- Strong interpersonal skills, professional demeanor and ability to maintain grace under pressure when adapting to a rapidly changing environment, including reprioritization or reassignment of responsibilities.
- Team-player, solution-oriented, intellectual agility and the ability to analyze and think critically.
- Remain accessible and responsive beyond business hours.
About Heartland Forward
Heartland Forward is a non-profit, policy think-and-do tank that turns ideas into action for states and local communities. Our mission is to accelerate economic growth, change the narrative about the middle of the country and generate $500 million of economic impact to the heartland by 2030. We do this through applied research, community-driven programs, policy and convenings— focusing on regional competitiveness, talent pipeline and health and wellness.
Heartland Forward is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building and maintaining a culturally diverse workplace. We encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status of protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.
