Research, Quality and Innovation Lead

The Research, Quality & Innovation Lead is responsible for advancing CCC’s evidence-informed practice, service quality, organisational learning, and innovation agenda.

The role leads the development of research initiatives, outcome evaluation systems, quality improvement frameworks, and innovation projects that strengthen clinical effectiveness and organisational impact. Working closely with clinical leaders, programme teams, management, and external partners, the Lead will foster a culture of inquiry, learning, accountability, and continuous improvement.

The Lead will also play a key role in exploring and implementing emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to enhance clinical practice, operational effectiveness, and client outcomes.

The incumbent is expected to work from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays. He/she is largely expected to work in an office environment, although he/she may also be required to travel out of the office for meetings.

Key Responsibility Areas

Research and Knowledge Development

• Develop and implement CCC's research and evaluation strategy aligned with organisational priorities;
• Work collaboratively with clinical teams to identify practice-based research opportunities and emerging service needs;
• Lead or coordinate research studies, programme evaluations, and outcome assessments;
• Conduct literature reviews and environmental scans to inform service development and innovation;
• Translate research findings into practical recommendations for programme improvement and service delivery;
• Build a repository of organisational knowledge, best practices, and evidence-based interventions.

Research Governance and Publication

• Coordinate research ethics applications and ensure compliance with relevant ethical and regulatory requirements;
• Develop research governance processes, policies, and standards;
• Collaborate with Research Consultants, academic institutions, and clinical teams on research design, analysis, and dissemination;
• Support the preparation and publication of research findings in peer-reviewed journals, conferences, and sector publications;
• Ensure research activities contribute meaningfully to service development and sector advancement.

Grant Development and Strategic Partnerships

• Identify research funding opportunities from government agencies, foundations, and academic partners;
• Coordinate and support grant proposal development and submission;
• Build partnerships with universities, healthcare institutions, social service agencies, and research organisations;
• Represent CCC in sector-wide research, evaluation, and innovation initiatives.

Quality Assurance and Outcomes Management

• Develop and oversee organisational quality assurance and outcome measurement frameworks;
• Monitor programme outcomes, service effectiveness, and key performance indicators;
• Analyse organisational and clinical data to identify trends, risks, strengths, and opportunities for improvement;
• Produce management dashboards and reports to support evidence-informed decision-making;
• Lead continuous quality improvement initiatives across programmes and services.

Data Analytics and Organisational Insights

• Develop systems and processes for effective collection, management, and analysis of service data;
• Use quantitative and qualitative data to generate actionable insights;
• Support departments in interpreting outcomes and using data to improve service delivery;
• Promote a culture of data literacy and evidence-based decision-making across the organisation.

Innovation and Artificial Intelligence

• Work with the Head of Corporate Services and Clinical Director to identify opportunities for innovation in service delivery and organisational operations;
• Evaluate and pilot emerging technologies, including AI-enabled tools, to enhance clinical and operational effectiveness;
• Develop frameworks and guidelines for the ethical, responsible, and safe use of AI within clinical services;
• Support staff capability building in digital innovation and AI applications;
• Monitor developments in technology and assess their implications for counselling, mental health, and social services.

Capability Building

• Build organisational capacity in research, evaluation, quality improvement, and innovation;
• Provide consultation and coaching to programme teams on outcome measurement, evaluation, and service improvement;
• Foster a culture of curiosity, learning, innovation, and accountability throughout the organisation;
• Manage departmental budgets, resources, and project timelines.