Research and Evaluation Manager – Visitor Economy

• Location: Birmingham (Hybrid)
• Team: Visitor Attraction / Tourism
• Contract Type: Permanent
• Salary: Competitive, based on experience

Shape the Evidence Behind Tourism Growth in the West Midlands

Are you a strategic thinker with a sharp analytical mind and a passion for place-based development? Join the West Midlands Growth Company as our Research and Evaluation Manager for Visitor Economy and play a leading role in gathering the insight that drives the future of the region’s tourism and visitor economy.

You’ll lead research design, stakeholder collaboration and data analysis that underpins regional strategies, informs major events, and influences policy. If you're ready to deliver evidence that shapes decisions, this is your opportunity to make a real impact.

What to Expect in This Role

• Lead Regional Research Strategy: Design and deliver a research and evaluation programme to support the West Midlands’ tourism and visitor economy goals.

• Analyse Complex Data Sets: Work with local, regional, national and international data to uncover insights, monitor performance, and guide decision-making.

• Collaborate with Key Stakeholders: Engage with local authorities, universities, government bodies, and industry groups to gather perspectives and align research efforts.

• Support Policy and Strategy Development: Use data to influence tourism planning, funding bids, investment propositions and government consultations.

• Commission and Manage Research Projects: Oversee third-party research procurement, feasibility studies, and audits, including contract management and quality assurance.

• Lead Evaluation Activity: Create reporting frameworks that measure outcomes, demonstrate impact, and support evidence-based improvements.

• Represent the Region: Act as a key voice in national and regional research groups, including VisitEngland, VisitBritain and other DMOs.

Are You the Right Fit?

You bring a strong track record in research, evaluation, and stakeholder engagement, ideally with experience in economic development, tourism, or place-based sectors. You're comfortable translating data into strategy, managing complex projects, and building consensus in a multi-stakeholder environment.

Next steps?

Further details are available in the full job description. Applicants are invited to submit a CV via email.