ABOUT LUMINA

Lumina Foundation is an independent, private foundation in Indianapolis committed to making opportunities for learning beyond high school available to all. We envision higher learning that is easy to navigate, delivers fair results, and meets the nation’s talent needs through a broad range of credentials. We work toward a system that prepares people for informed citizenship and success in a global economy. With an endowment of nearly $1.5 billion and offices in Indianapolis and Washington, D.C., Lumina has a passionate and committed staff that values candor, collaboration, and connection. Learn more about our values here.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STRATEGY OFFICER FOR RESEARCH

The Strategy Officer for Research reports to the Strategy Director of Research & Evaluation and collaboratively works with the Strategic Impact and Planning division and across the foundation to develop and manage research on efforts to increase high-quality credential attainment. The officer helps develop and implement the research and evaluation agenda, identifying and synthesizing the research and evidence to advise Lumina’s strategy, drive improvements, and document and share effective practices, policies, and programs across Lumina and the field. The Officer will provide leadership and support in these areas:

Commitment to Educational Equity

•  Advance Lumina’s commitment to improving post-high school educational outcomes and increasing the proportion of working-age adults in the United States with quality learning credentials, particularly Black, Hispanic, Latino, and Native American individuals and those from low-income backgrounds. Apply practices that strengthen and promote equitable approaches in hiring, contracting, grantmaking, and strategic decision-making to achieve fair and just outcomes. 
•  Clearly communicate Lumina’s commitment to internal and external partners.

Portfolio Design and Management 

•  Manage an assigned portfolio of research grants and contracts through the full lifecycle from concept and proposal review to execution, providing support and collaborating to ensure the success of projects and partners.  
• Leverage existing relationships with trusted colleagues and cultivate new partnerships to refine Lumina’s portfolio based on emerging trends and evolving needs. Monitor the field to continually enhance the portfolio and identify relevant research aligned with Lumina’s strategic goals.

Integration and Collaboration

• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams, external partners, grantees, and contractors.  Collaborate with colleagues across the organization to share insights and maximize the impact of Lumina’s resources.
• Provide guidance and support to Lumina staff in the development and execution of research and evaluation needs. Foster a learning culture by engaging in internal committees, external communities of practice, working sessions or other opportunities for professional development.

Strategy Conceptualization and Analysis 

•  Collaborate with the Strategy Director to refine, enhance, or pivot research and evaluation strategies.
•  Analyze, synthesize, share, and apply lessons from research and evaluation about effective policies, practices, and programs to shape and inform future work across Lumina and the field.
•  Examine data and emerging trends, developing analytic briefs to support real-time decision-making and strategic planning.

Thought Leadership 

•  Contribute expertise to advance the fields of higher education and philanthropy, including by representing the Foundation at public and private meetings, including panel discussions, presentations, and speeches. Develop blogs to amplify research and evaluation findings.
• Utilize social media to elevate partner reports and briefs.
• Ensure accuracy and validity of research and evidence used in Lumina’s communications.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

We believe that individuals with a range of experiences can thrive in this role. We seek candidates who have the following key qualifications:

• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree required and Master’s preferred, in a discipline that includes an emphasis on research analysis and methodology.  At least five (5) years’ experience in evaluation or applied research capacity. Familiarity with research related to postsecondary education is highly desirable.
• Commitment to Educational Equity: Demonstrated dedication to advancing equitable educational outcomes, particularly for Black, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, and low-income individuals, by applying inclusive and fair practices in research, strategy, and decision-making.
• Research & Analysis: Ability to apply quantitative and qualitative research methodologies and analyze complex data and to be thoughtful and innovative in analyzing complex data. Analytical and problem-solving skills exercised with good judgment. 
• Relationship Building & Collaboration: Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with colleagues, stakeholders, and team members, fostering proactive communication and constructive collaboration. Ability to work collegially and diplomatically across lines of difference.
• Strategic Thinking & Innovation: Ability to develop and execute strategic plans, adapt to evolving priorities, and bring innovative approaches to research and evaluation. 
• Project & Time Management: Demonstrated ability prioritize and organize work, manage multiple projects and workstreams, execute, follow through and remain flexible to achieve results in a dynamic environment. Ability to manage a budget. 
• Decision-Making & Problem-Solving: Ability to make informed decisions, independently and collaboratively, even with incomplete information, in an outcomes-oriented, evolving environment. Exercises sound judgment in handling sensitive or confidential information.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively communicate complex concepts, findings, and concerns effectively to diverse stakeholders. 
• Adaptable: Ability to quickly absorb new information and thrive in a matrixed, collaborative team environment, while contributing to a culture of collegiality, respect, and mutual support.
• Tech-Savvy: Skilled in using Microsoft Excel and other relevant technology tools relevant for research, analysis, and communication effectively.  

LOCATION

This is a hybrid position based in Indianapolis, IN. Employees spend three working days in the office each week.  Work is performed in an office environment, mostly sedentary with extensive use of various forms of technology. Travel is about 10-20%, including overnight stays.  

TO APPLY

This search is being supported by Callie Carroll of CLC Endeavors. Applications should include a resume and cover letter that communicates your interest and aligned experience. Priority will be given to applications submitted by April 18th though applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled. 

Lumina Foundation provides equal employment opportunity for all, regardless of race or ethnicity, gender or gender identity, health conditions, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other bases protected by local, state, or federal law. Lumina also prohibits retaliation and harassment of any individual based on these characteristics.