Management | Research Manager/Planner III - Planning & Implementation - FT

One of the largest Indigenous-owned research firms and values-based organizations, the Firelight Group has provided socially responsible, community-driven research services across Canada since 2010. Indigenous clients have trusted Firelight to provide high-quality research and technical services that decolonize research practices and centre on Indigenous Knowledge and values to protect rights and advance self-determination. Firelight has an expanding, diverse team of over 100 talented professionals working on multi-disciplinary projects in nine business units: Indigenous Knowledge Research, Socio-Economic Research, Environmental Assessment, Indigenous Negotiations, Mapping & GIS, Planning & Implementation, Ecology, and Indigenous Health.

Firelight has offices in Xwmélch’tstn, xʷməθkʷəy̓əm Territory, Lkwungen, Tkarón:to, and ᐊᒥᐢᑿᒌᐚᐢᑲᐦᐃᑲᐣ (Amiskwacîwâskahikan). Firelight acknowledges that most of our work is with clients on territories where we are invited guests, and we are deeply grateful for this trust. We bring respect, humility, and a willingness to learn while recognizing that our work supports realizing our clients’ needs and objectives. Firelight proudly provides client-identified services that amplify and strengthen community voice and participation.

JOB OVERVIEW

Reporting to the Business Lead (or delegate), the Research Manager is a technical specialist on their team. With expertise in planning and resource management-related research, community engagement and facilitation, project management and implementation, the Research Manager supports and/or leads their own consulting files, informing the design, strategy and execution of projects. The Research Manager provides consistently superior client experience, enhancing the image and reputation of the company and ensuring Firelight’s values guide project strategies and processes. 

RESPONSIBILITIES + DUTIES

Technical Advising

• Lead the design, strategy, and execution of consulting projects within the business area under the guidance of the Technical Lead
• Work with Technical Lead and other Research Managers to provide strong technical skills in planning, community-facing engagement, research, strategy and evaluation to ensure innovative and high-quality deliverables

• Act as a lead facilitator (either in-person or virtually) on select projects

• Support and lead the application of best practices, Indigenous research methods, engagement, and implementation
• Lead the development of planning, research and engagement materials, as well as reports for clients and external stakeholders
• Lead discussions with clients to define client requirements and priorities on complex financial and/or organizational issues

• Support the implementation of innovative practices that are aligned to emerging trends and best practices in the business area

Project Management

• Act as a Project Manager on complex, multi-methods projects aligned to Firelight values and client expectations 
  • Develop and monitor project scope, plans, budgets, and schedules to ensure successful project delivery; 
  • ensure timely execution of current, planned, and/or adjusted tasks in alignment with the project scope and schedule
  • Identify and allocate fiscal and human resources, develop work plans, delegate tasks and work appropriately to achieve project success
• Oversee and coordinate the work of Research Analysts, Planners and Researchers, and provide feedback to identify areas for further development and growth 
• Oversee and manage project budgets to ensure project profitability and healthy cash flow
• Coordinate with the Finance Department to ensure timely invoicing
• Manage information, data and documents following established procedures; ensure quality control and security of research data
• Oversee logistical coordination of multi-day community engagement with research teams

Client Engagement

• Represent Firelight to clients, communities and in expert technical meetings with minimal supervision and review
• Work with and coordinate the activities of community partners and others, including Firelight team members and external consultants to develop, design, and implement projects
• Nurture and cultivate partner and client relationships through service excellence, knowledge transfer, and skills development
• Support and coach others in effective community engagements aligned with Firelight’s values and with shared objectives 

People Leadership 

• Foster a positive and respectful workplace, aligned with Firelight’s values and objectives
• Provide feedback on Researcher / Planner staff performance to Program Managers to inform performance management and professional development
• Supervise Researchers / Planners on project-specific work, including quality review and mentorship

• Ensure the workplace, including while travelling for in-community and on-territory work, meets all health and safety guidelines and regulations

• Support the development of Firelight’s organizational learning and knowledge
• Mentor Researcher / Planner staff in support of their growth and development

QUALIFICATIONS + EXPERIENCE

• 7+ years of recent, relevant consulting experience
• 5 years of experience working with and for Indigenous communities
• Master's degree or equivalent in experience
• Fluency in oral and written English