Senior Research Manager

FSB is seeking an experienced policy researcher to ensure the FSB’s research programme continues to provide real insight, and command the attention of the UK Government and FSB members across the UK.  Reporting into the Policy Director, as the Senior Research Manager you will have line management responsibilities for two members of staff, as well as supporting the wider policy team to produce high quality research outputs that influence national decision-making.

FSB is the UK’s leading business organisation with an unparalleled voice to those in power. You will have the opportunity to undertake primary research and develop published policy reports to be used across the FSB network. As the successful candidate, you’ll have the opportunity to work closely with small business members and external stakeholders, including MPs, civil servants and small business owners from across the UK. In addition to this, you’ll be working with FSB’s policy, public affairs, EU and media teams, as well as FSB’s local regional and devolved teams. 

The ideal candidate will have experience of line management and bringing out the best in a team. You will be data-focused, as a key part of the job will be overseeing FSB’s survey programme, working with partner organisations to deliver a good experience for members completing surveys and ensuring data is presented accurately and compellingly in FSB’s policy reports.  You need a thorough awareness of policy and the wider macroeconomic environment as you identify key policy issues facing FSB. Strong attention to detail, and the ability to conduct, analyse and present research is essential in this role. Your expertise will be relied upon as you make recommendations to FSB’s Policy Committee members, senior staff and the FSB Policy Director regarding relevant policy issues and campaigns.

FSB is dedicated to helping small businesses survive through these difficult times, and we value our staff enough to provide highly competitive rates of pay, benefits, and internationally recognised qualifications. We believe your work life balance is important, and we provide you with all the tools, skills and support to help our members every day, and help you develop your skills through teamwork and relationship building. We believe diversity is the key to success, and we encourage people from all walks of life and backgrounds to come and join us. Our inclusive environment allows all our employees to bring their whole selves to work.

In addition to a fulfilling career with FSB, you’ll also benefit from:

• 26 days holidays per year plus bank holidays with the option to buy 3 days with your Annual Flex Pot*
• Annual Flex Pot* to spend on benefits including additional pension, additional holidays, additional critical illness cover, cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership 
• Health cash plan* (Access to claim back numerous benefits, including towards dental treatment, optical, chiropody, physiotherapy, counselling, health and wellbeing)
• Critical illness and income protection insurance*
• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity Pay
• Access to an employee assistance programme and mental health first aiders
• Group Personal Pension (GPP)

*Applicable on completion of probationary period and subject to terms.

About Us

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is the UK’s grassroots business organisation. We are a cross-party non-profit body that represents small business and self-employed members in every nation and region. In 2024, FSB celebrated 50 years of being the authoritative voice on issues affecting the UK’s 5.5 million small businesses, microbusinesses and the self-employed. 

FSB is the UK’s largest business group and leading business campaigner, focused on achieving change which supports smaller businesses to grow and succeed. We also provide our members with a wide range of vital business services, helping them to start, run, and grow successful businesses through high quality protection and support. This includes 24/7 legal support, financial expertise, training and events, debt recovery and employment/HR advice – alongside a powerful voice heard by governments at all levels. 

Our local, national and international activism helps shape policy decisions that have a direct impact on the day-to-day running of smaller businesses. We work for their interests through research and engagement with our members and by effective campaigning - influencing those in power through policy analysis, public affairs, media and public relations activity. Our advocacy work starts with our expert external affairs team in Westminster, which focuses on UK and England policy issues, the UK Government, Parliament and media and communications engagement. Further to this, our teams in Glasgow, Cardiff and Belfast work with governments, elected representatives and media in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

How to apply:

All applications to be received by Wednesday 08 January 2025. Any applications received after this date will be held on file for a maximum of 6 months and reviewed if the first round of applicants are unsuccessful.

Additional Information:

All applicants must be able to provide at interview stage their highest education certificates as listed on their CV and verification of their eligibility to work in the UK.

FSB is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to inclusion across gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, colour, race, ethnic origin, religious beliefs and disability. We believe that diversity and inclusion in our team is integral to our success in supporting the UK’s vast array of small businesses.

Applicants are advised to apply early, we reserve the right to close a vacancy prior to the closing date if a high number of applications are received. If you are successful and short listed for interview you will be contacted by email.