Senior Researcher

Key Information

• Reports to: Head of Policy & Research
• Contract: Fixed-term contract 6-months
• Hours: Full time (35hrs per week), Mon to Fri
• Location: Flexible working minimum 2 days per week in Shoreditch office
• Salary: £40,000 p/a pro rata
• Start Date: Immediate (notice periods will be taken into consideration)
• Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

About BESA

BESA is the UK’s leading trade association for educational suppliers, representing over 400 companies and supporting a sector generating over £2 billion annually. With a 90-year heritage, BESA provides unparalleled support, research, events, and advice for both UK and international education markets. BESA founded the BETT Show, the Education Show, and the Education World Forum, and supports over 40 education start-ups through its Launchpad programme.

About the role

BESA is seeking to appoint a Senior Researcher on an initial 6-month fixed-term basis to support the development of its in-house research capability. Research is one of BESA’s core member benefits and already enjoys high levels of satisfaction amongst members. A successful candidate would be expected to expand the strategic value of BESA’s research to adding value to a wider group of stakeholders including policymakers, teachers and system leaders.

The role will focus primarily on delivery of a major study by BESA into Social Value in the procurement chain. It will lead on the design, delivery, analysis and drafting of research outputs, including buyer research, desk research, report development and practical materials for members and wider stakeholders.

In addition to working on this specific project, a successful candidate would also need to support the Head of Policy & Research in the management of BESA’s research programme including managing external delivery partners and ensure that reports are scheduled and developed on time and to a high-quality.

This role is temporary as BESA is assessing whether there is an ongoing need for an in-house research capability within the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct rigorous qualitative and quantitative research and analysis including: Carrying out literature reviews; Completing desk research and interviewing stakeholders in the education sector: e.g. policymakers, suppliers, system leaders.
• Contribute to the drafting of reports, briefings and related outputs.
• Represent BESA at external meetings, events and in the media.
• Lead and manage projects from conception to launch.
• Support the communication of our research through social media and other channels.
• Coordinate and quality assure quantitative research delivered by external partners and suppliers.

Essential Experience

• Experience of conducting policy, market, social or applied research.
• Experience of qualitative research methods, including interviews, evidence synthesis or thematic analysis.
• Experience of drafting research reports, briefings or analytical outputs for non-specialist audiences.
• Experience using desk research to provide context, evidence and interpretation.
• Strong written communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, structured and accessible analysis.
• Ability to manage competing tasks and work to agreed milestones.

Desirable

• Experience of education policy, procurement, public services, social value or supplier markets.
• Experience working in a membership body, trade association, think tank, research agency, consultancy or policy environment.

Package and Benefits

• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays and birthday
• Pension scheme: 5% employer contribution
• Wellness and social activities
• Flexible working arrangements
• Dynamic office in Shoreditch

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your interest in the role and why you would like to work at BESA to Peter Doyle, Head of Policy & Research, peter@besa.org.uk.

Applications will close on the 10th August 2026. BESA will review applications as they are received. Early applications are encouraged, as suitable candidates may be invited to interview before the closing date.