Senior Research Manager – Youth Justice

Reports to: Head of Guidance and Policy 

Salary: £54,320 

Contract: 13-month maternity cover (fixed term contract) 

Location: Central London, hybrid*

Closing date for applications: 9pm on Monday 6^th July 

Interview dates: 22^nd and 23^rd July  

About the Youth Endowment Fund 

We’re here to prevent children and young people becoming involved in violence. We do this by finding out what works and building a movement to put this knowledge into practice. 

The Research team is at the heart of YEF’s mission to understand what works and turn evidence into real-world impact. It combines rigorous research with a strong focus on producing clear, actionable insights that improve outcomes for children.

In this role, you will lead the development of two major Youth Justice guidance reports—one focused on frontline practice and one on system reform—drawing on extensive research to produce clear, evidence-based recommendations. Working closely with internal experts, external partners and the Ministry of Justice, you will help shape policy and practice across the sector and drive meaningful change.

Key Responsibilities

As a Senior Research Manager (SRM) you will:

• Lead the development of Youth Justice guidance, producing practice and system reports that translate YEF-funded research into clear, evidence-based recommendations.
• Act as YEF’s Youth Justice expert, tracking key issues, synthesising emerging research, and supporting the publication of major reviews across the sector.
• Build and manage strategic relationships, working with the Ministry of Justice, expert panels, and sector partners, and representing YEF at external events.
• Turn evidence into practical tools and resources, collaborating with the Change Team to create accessible summaries and support the development of implementation tools such as self-assessments.

To apply

Please click on the “Apply here” button and submit your CV, cover letter and complete the monitoring form by 5:00pm on Monday 6th July