Research Manager

Overview

Research Manager

At the Irish Family History Centre (IFHC), part of EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, we help people around the world discover their Irish roots and family stories. We're now looking for a Research Manager to lead our team of genealogists, deliver world-class research services, and act as the professional and public face of IFHC. This is a role for someone with deep expertise in genealogy, proven leadership skills, and the ability to combine meticulous research with outstanding client service.

You will be leading our teams across the following areas:

Research Process & Client Engagement

• Assess client enquiries, prepare tailored proposals, and manage delivery from start to finish
• Apply advanced skills in traditional and genetic genealogy (autosomal DNA, mtDNA, Y-DNA)
• Ensure all work complies with ethical, legal, and data protection standards
• Maintain accurate client records and oversee project tracking systems
• Review and quality-check all reports before delivery

Team & Workflow Management

• Allocate projects based on staff expertise and client needs
• Balance workloads, monitor performance metrics, and ensure deadlines are met
• Coordinate with the Centre Manager on scheduling, subscriptions, and research tools
• Respond to client feedback and drive continuous improvement

Staff Training & Supervision

• Provide coaching, mentoring, and professional development for the research team
• Support capacity planning and guide staff through changes or reassignment
• Foster best practice and knowledge-sharing across the team

VIP & Public Engagement

• Deliver tailored research presentations to VIPs and special groups
• Represent IFHC/EPIC at events, talks, courses, and public programmes
• Act as a genealogy spokesperson in media appearances (TV, radio, podcasts)
• Contribute to training and educational activities

Product & Service Development

• Help shape and refine genealogy services and packages
• Collaborate with Sales and Operations on bespoke or high-value offerings

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of Irish history and heritage in a genealogical context
• Extensive experience in genealogical research, including traditional and genetic genealogy (autosomal DNA, mtDNA, and Y-DNA)
• Proven ability to manage complex research projects to a high standard
• Leadership and people-management experience with a mentoring approach
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills
• Ability to manage workflow, allocate projects, and meet competing deadlines
• Proficiency with genealogy databases (Ancestry, Findmypast, RootsIreland) and openness to new technologies
• Familiarity with ethical, legal, and data protection issues in research
• Experience representing an organisation publicly (talks, training, media)
• High level of discretion and sensitivity when handling client information

Additional/Desirable

• Recognised qualifications in History and/or Genealogy
• Experience contributing to product or service development in a research or heritage context
• Familiarity with commercial metrics (e.g., revenue, client satisfaction, turnaround times)
• Strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to collaborate across departments

If you're passionate about family history and genealogy, ready to lead a skilled team, and excited to help people worldwide uncover their roots, we'd love to hear from you

Apply for the job: Along with your CV please write a short cover letter, outlining your suitability for this exciting role.

At The Irish Family History Centre at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We strive to create an environment that embraces and celebrates the differences among our employees, promoting a culture of fairness, equality, and mutual respect.

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