Research Program Manager, Filene (Remote)

At TruStage, we’re on a mission to make a brighter financial future accessible to everyone.  We put people first, and work hand in hand with employees and customers to create a diverse and inclusive environment. Passionate about building insurance, investment and technology solutions, we push the boundaries of what’s possible. We need you to help us shape what’s next. You’ll be encouraged to share your experiences, ideas and skills to help others take control of their financial future.

Join a team that has received numerous awards for being a top place to work: TruStage awards and recognition

The Research Program Manager will play a pivotal role in advancing the research strategy, operational efficiency, and growth of Filene Research Institute. This role will work closely with the Head of Research on planning and managing research outputs in a way that is compelling and useful to credit unions and drives impact for their members. 

The Research Program Manager will manage the “how” and “when” of the Filene research agenda, collaborating across departments to ensure research results are published and disseminated effectively. The Research Program Manager will identify, implement and improve processes to support research team operations, while managing the execution of assigned research projects. In addition, the Research Program Manager will be responsible for new business development and sponsor relationship management, including shared ownership of our flagship research communities (Inner Circle and Think Tank).

Role Responsibilities

Program & Project Management

• Oversee the day-to-day management of Filene’s research portfolio, managing the execution of research through our Centers of Excellence (COEs). 
• Develop comprehensive processes and frameworks to enable the efficient delivery of future research efforts, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and sponsor needs.
• Create and manage project timelines and deliverables, rigorously tracking progress to ensure timely and thorough completion of research outputs consistent with Filene standards.
• Manage risks, initiate follow-ups, actively problem-solve, and revise timeline when necessary to meet project goals and ensure overall output success. 
• Oversee budgets for assigned research projects, ensuring effective allocation of resources and prudent financial oversight.
• Negotiate contracts and manage relationships with external vendors and partners, ensuring favorable terms, compliance and expectations.
• Lead and manage relationships with external research partners, identifying and recruiting the talent and capabilities necessary to support new research centers and drive research excellence.
• Onboard research fellows to ensure they are integrated effectively into the research environment and set-up for success.
• Oversee the sunsetting of research centers, ensuring a smooth transition and effective communication with stakeholders.

Relationship Management & Business Development

• Lead sponsor relationship management and new business development for assigned portfolio of target market credit unions and partners.
• With Head of Research, share ownership of over 70 Inner Circle sponsors and 40 Think Tank sponsors.
• Onboard new sponsors, ensuring smooth integration and meaningful engagement with the Filene research community.
• Manage sponsor data, including points of contact, distribution lists, contract terms, key events and critical milestones.

General & Administrative

• Lead, manage and develop research team members, as assigned.
• Model Filene Credo and play an active role in creating and sustaining strong organizational culture.
• Actively support the achievement of Filene's strategic objectives, plan, budget, and metrics in a manner consistent with Filene’s mission, values, and brand.
• Provide extraordinary service to Filene’s staff, members, and stakeholders.
• Understand and engage in Filene’s complete body of work including research and advisory programs to connect member needs with Filene solutions that can best meet those needs.

• Prioritize and manage workload across several projects simultaneously, demonstrating the ability to shift gears when necessary to meet key deadlines.

The statements above are not intended to be all-inclusive and other duties will be assigned as needed.  

Role Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required. 

• 5+ years of research project management experience required; or 4+ years of relevant professional experience with an advanced graduate degree (i.e., MBA, PhD, MS, etc.) in related field required.
• Credit union system experience desired, with a deep understanding of challenges and opportunities within the sector. For those without direct credit union experience, interest and excitement to learn a unique and growing industry is a must. 

• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with research tools, project management software (e.g. Monday, Basecamp), and CRM platforms (e.g. Salesforce) preferred.

• Strategic Planning and Project Management: Expertise in planning and leading initiatives, including definition of resource requirements. Strong project management skills with a proven ability to work independently.  
• Business Development Acumen: Experience in business development and fostering relationships with sponsors, clients, or partners.
• Contract Negotiation & Budget Management: Strong negotiation skills and experience managing contracts and budgets.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to present ideas clearly and concisely to a variety of audiences. Ability to develop comprehensive written reports and documents. 

• Interpersonal and Facilitation Skills: Confidence to collaborate with CEOs and senior credit union employees to achieve positive outcomes for Filene initiatives. Strong facilitation and relationship management skills.

• Curiosity: Intellectually curious about credit unions and their members. Enjoy working in a “think tank” environment where ideation, continually embracing change, being restless with the status quo and seeking reinvention is part of the culture. A passion for purpose and precision – including the details. 

• Travel expected up to 25% to fulfill the requirements of the role. 

If you’re ready to help make a difference, apply today. Please provide your Work Experience and Education or attach a copy of your resume.  Applications received without this information may be removed from consideration.

Compensation may vary based on the job level, your geographic work location, position incentive plan and exemption status.

Base Salary Range:

At TruStageTM, we believe a sound, inclusive benefits program is of vital importance, along with a flexible workplace that allows for work-life balance, career growth and retirement assistance. In addition to your base pay, your position may be eligible for an annual incentive (bonus) plan.  Additional benefits available to eligible employees include medical, dental, vision, employee assistance program, life insurance, disability plans, parental leave, paid time off, 401k, and tuition reimbursement, just to name a few. Beyond pay and benefits, we also recognize that flexibility, including working in a place you prefer, is essential to caring for our employees.  We will continue to strive to offer flexibility and invest in technology and other tools that will make hybrid working normal rather than an exception, so that when “life happens,” you can focus on what’s most important.

Accommodation request

TruStage is a place where everyone can bring their best self and thrive. If you need application or interview process accommodations, please contact the accessibility department.