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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