Who Is CIGI & How Are They Changing the World?
The Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI) is an independent, non-partisan think tank that delivers world-leading, peer-reviewed research, foresight and trusted analysis to influence policy makers to innovate. With a global network of experts, CIGI tackles the governance challenges and opportunities of data and transformative technologies – including AI – and their impact on the economy, security, democracy and societies around the world. CIGI’s work sits at the intersection of technology and governance, shaping policy on complex, cutting-edge issues that define the digital economy.
How Will I Make An Impact?
Focus of the Digital Economy Program
At CIGI, the digital economy program is anchored in the governance of money and financial systems in an era of rapid technological change. This includes research on central banking and the future of money; digital assets, payments, and financial market infrastructure; and the economic and regulatory implications of data-driven technologies, including artificial intelligence.While the program engages with broader digital governance issues, this role is best suited to candidates with demonstrated expertise in monetary systems, financial regulation, or financial infrastructure, and a strong interest in shaping policy debates at the intersection of finance, technology, and global governance
Reporting to the President of CIGI, the Research Director of Digital Economy is a member of the Senior Management Team. You will:
- Provide strategic leadership on digital economy research themes, identifying high-impact opportunities to shift public policy and debate.
- Lead and contribute to original, policy-relevant research and analysis on topics aligned with CIGI’s mission and mandate.
- Help shape CIGI’s strategic plan, annual Program of Work and Budget, and organization-wide priorities.
- Oversee the development of CIGI’s annual research framework in the digital economy portfolio and guide related research activities and outputs.
- Mentor and support fellows, post-docs, and student researchers to deliver high-quality, influential research.
- Represent CIGI regularly at conferences, roundtables, policy fora, and in the media, strengthening the organization’s profile and thought leadership.
- Build and sustain partnerships with national and international institutions, funders, and collaborators in the digital economy and public policy space.
- Recruit, lead, and develop research staff and fellows to ensure alignment with CIGI’s strategic goals and a high-performance, values-based culture.
- Oversee the operational aspects of research programming – including planning, execution, and reporting – to ensure excellence and accountability.
How Do I Know If This Is For Me?
- You’re energized by the chance to shape policy conversations on data, AI and the digital economy at a global level.
- You enjoy leading multi-disciplinary teams and collaborating across policy, research, and communications functions.
- You are as comfortable in deep policy analysis as you are in front of a crowd, in the media, or in high-level stakeholder meetings.
- You thrive in a mission-driven environment where research is designed for real-world impact, not just publication.
- You’re excited by the idea of being part of a senior leadership team, influencing organizational strategy and culture.
- You value a hybrid workplace that supports in-person collaboration and connection – and you’re able to be on-site in Waterloo, Ontario at least 2 days per week.
Our Ideal Candidate Looks Like:
- Graduate degree in public policy, political science, economics, international affairs, business, or a related discipline. A science or engineering background combined with policy experience is also welcome.
- At least 10 years of experience in applied research, policy analysis, or leadership roles within a think tank, academic institution, government, or non-profit setting.
- Proven track record managing multi-disciplinary research teams and complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
- Strong written communication skills with a portfolio of policy-relevant publications, reports, or commentary.
- Deep understanding of the policy-making process and the role of independent research in shaping public debate and decision-making.
- Skilled and confident communicator with experience in public speaking, media engagement, and stakeholder outreach.
- Strategic, collaborative leadership style with a commitment to research excellence, impact, and evidence-informed policy.
- High degree of professional integrity, adaptability, and emotional intelligence; you foster trust, inclusion, and accountability in your teams.
Location & Work Environment
- Based at the CIGI Campus in Waterloo, Ontario.
- Hybrid work environment, with a minimum of 2 days per week in the office.
We understand, accept, and value the differences between people of different backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, ages, beliefs, and abilities. We are happy to make any accommodations you may need throughout the interview process. We aim to create an inclusive environment and encourage diverse individuals to apply.
The Process:
- Initial conversation with Artemis Canada Consultant to explore your interest, background, and alignment with CIGI’s mandate and this opportunity.
- Initial conversation with CIGI to dive deeper into your experience, research interests, and leadership approach.
- Follow-up interviews and presentation with members of the Senior Management Team and key stakeholders.
- TBD: Final-stage in-person conversations.
And of course, your Artemis Canada Executive Recruitment Consultant, will work closely with you throughout every step of the process.
We’d love to hear from you - even if you don’t meet 100% of the requirements!
Send a note to alex@artemiscanada.com if you or someone you know is interested!
