Head of Research and Development

About the role

Seismic Consulting Limited seeks an accomplished Head of Research, Development & Strategic Advisory to provide intellectual leadership, oversee complex multidisciplinary assignments, and position the firm as a leading evidence‑based development solutions provider in Nigeria and across Africa.

Key responsibilities

• Define research strategy and provide technical direction for multi‑sectoral consulting projects, including baseline studies, impact evaluations, feasibility studies and policy reviews.
• Lead multiple donor‑funded and government consultancy assignments, managing project managers, specialists, field teams and technical partners to ensure delivery on scope, schedule and budget.
• Identify and pursue business development opportunities, lead proposal preparation, and support financial bid development and consortium formation.
• Build and maintain relationships with ministries, development partners, research institutions and industry stakeholders, representing Seismic at policy dialogues and sector consultations.
• Establish research quality standards, oversee ethical protocols, review methodologies and mentor research staff.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Development Studies, Economics, Public Policy, Statistics, Social Sciences or related field (PhD preferred).
• 12–15 years of progressive experience in development research or management consulting, including at least five years in a senior technical leadership role.
• Proven track record delivering at least five large‑scale research or development consultancy assignments for international donors or government bodies.
• Strong commercial awareness, business development experience and ability to manage multidisciplinary teams.

Required skills

• Proficiency with SPSS, STATA, R, Power BI, KoboToolbox, SurveyCTO or equivalent analytical platforms.
• Expertise in designing quantitative, qualitative and mixed‑method research frameworks.