RESEARCH & POLICY LEAD

THE OPPORTUNITY
United Way Winnipeg is a provincial leader in community impact, dedicated to improving lives and advancing the common good. Supporting a network of over 125 Agency Partners, programs and initiatives, United Way Winnipeg brings together individuals, businesses, nonprofits, and governments to tackle society’s most pressing challenges.

At the heart of United Way Winnipeg’s mission is a commitment to building a stronger, more equitable community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Guided by a bold vision and driven by measurable results, United Way Winnipeg serves as a trusted partner to individuals and organizations who share a passion for making a difference. Together, we fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in our community.

Our Mission
Our mission is to improve lives and build community by engaging individuals and mobilizing collective action.

Our Vision
Our vision is a thriving community where everyone can reach their potential.

We strive passionately for these ideals. It’s our promise to the community that we will invest resources where they’re needed most and where they’ll do the most good—and that volunteers from the community will be involved every step of the way.

United Way Winnipeg’s work is making our community a better place for everyone.

POSITION SUMMARY
Working within the Impact & Innovation Department, the Research & Policy Lead is a key contributor to UWW’s work in research and strategic policy analysis, positioning United Way Winnipeg to have the greatest impact possible in addressing the root causes of our most complex social issues. They define research strategy and use their expertise, skills, and experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods, data analysis and knowledge mobilization to lead complex projects from concept to completion. They are passionate about understanding the complex social challenges present in the community, bring curiosity, forward thinking, and a systemic approach to the role, and ensure UWW's work is evidence-based and community-informed.

RESPONSIBILTIES
Research, Policy, & Government Relations

• Lead the development of United Way Winnipeg’s research strategy in alignment with departmental and organizational priorities.
• Support United Way Winnipeg's understanding of systems and social issues by conducting community-based primary research related to existing and emerging social issues in the community, as determined by and in collaboration with stakeholders and senior management, including overall project management, content development, communication strategy and execution, and knowledge mobilization.
• Provide project management and lead research for the Peg initiative (mypeg.ca).
• Share knowledge and build capacity across the organization to ensure United Way Winnipeg’s research and engagement practices are community-informed, inclusive, and equitable.
• Establish and lead organizational research partnerships with academia, other non-profits, and government partners, including relationship building and representing UWW at events and on committees where appropriate.
• Prepare concise briefing notes, analyze, and interpret key economic and demographic findings, government policies and legislation, social issues and effective practices as they impact United Way, the community, and the non-profit sector.
• Monitor trends relating to social issues, research, and policy within the broader United Way network and facilitate collaboration and alignment.
• Develop compelling evidence-based position papers and policy options to support UWW’s work.

Stakeholder Relationships, Partnerships & Committees

• Participate in UWW committees, teams, and working groups as appropriate.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with community, donors, social service agencies, academia, research bodies, and other United Ways across Canada related to emerging best practices and shared knowledge.
• Prepare and deliver presentations to external groups, including facilitation of engagement sessions, community consultation to inform research and other organizational priorities, informational presentations, and panels.
• Cultivate interdisciplinary connections and foster inclusivity by engaging individuals with firsthand perspectives and lived experience.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Planning, Community Development, or related field (Master’s or PhD preferred).
• 5+ years’ experience in research, governance, strategic policy, or related roles.
• Experience working with Indigenous communities or strong knowledge of Indigenous governance and community development.
• Expertise in research design, analysis, and methodologies, including proficiency with software such as SPSS, R, SAS, Nvivo, or MAXQDA.
• Strong skills in both qualitative and quantitative analysis, including coding and advanced statistical methods.
• Solid understanding of public policy development and government processes.
• Proven project management skills, with experience in multi-stakeholder and cross-sector initiatives.
• Excellent relationship-building and interpersonal skills with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong communication, writing, and knowledge translation abilities; skilled at facilitation and presenting to varied audiences.
• Flexible, adaptable, and comfortable working in dynamic or ambiguous environments.
• Strong judgment, decision-making, and evaluation skills.
• Highly organized with strong planning, time management, and prioritization abilities.

BENEFITS
United Way Winnipeg offers opportunities for personal and professional growth in a rewarding career! We offer excellent benefits, including:

• Company paid Health and Dental Coverage
• Defined Benefit Pension Package with Company Match
• Generous Paid Time off and Holiday schedule
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements to support work life balance

HOW TO APPLY
United Way Winnipeg is committed to achieving and maintaining a workforce that reflects the demographics of the communities we serve. Applicants are asked to self-declare.

We are committed to providing an inclusive, barrier-free work environment, beginning with the hiring process. Individuals applying for employment with United Way Winnipeg may request accommodations at all stages of recruitment and employment from the People & Culture team. All information received as it relates to accommodation will be kept confidential.

To apply, please visit our website or click Apply today! Application deadline is October 6, 2025.