About ISDM


The Indian School of Development Management pioneers a transformative approach to management, envisioning a world that is just, equitable, and sustainable. Established in 2016, it serves as a foundational hub for cultivating a robust ecosystem and a cadre of skilled professionals dedicated to advancing social change globally.


Driven by the conviction that the social sector plays a pivotal role in addressing humanity's most pressing challenges, the school operates on the premise that effective management is essential for achieving significant impact. By nurturing talent in Development Management tailored to the unique needs of the social sector, the school aims to catalyze sustainable socio-economic and ecological progress on a large scale.


Recognizing the power of institutions to shape professional ecosystems, the school aims to establish itself as a beacon of excellence in higher education. Through this, it seeks to lay the groundwork for a thriving community of practitioners dedicated to driving positive change in society.


Over the past seven years, the Indian School of Development Management (ISDM) has garnered validation, support, and funding from esteemed individuals and organizations. While numerous programs worldwide aim to cultivate management capabilities for the social sector, they often reside within larger university ecosystems or business schools, where they may receive lesser attention compared to mainstream programs. ISDM stands out as the sole institution globally dedicated to fostering a comprehensive ecosystem for Development Management, focusing on pioneering work in critical areas.


ISDM's initiatives encompass:

1. Knowledge Creation: Establishing a Global Knowledge Hub to create, disseminate, and institutionalize contextual knowledge on building, leading, and managing social purpose organizations, networks, and platforms.

2. Talent Nurturing: Offering the Post Graduate Program in Development Management (PGP-DM) to attract and develop top-tier talent capable of addressing management challenges within the sector.

3. Capacity Building: Providing Strategic Capacity Building programs to enhance individual and institutional capacities in development management, thereby fostering sustainable and scalable social impact.


ISDM has successfully completed its Proof of Concept Phase and is now set for expansion over the next five years. Key achievements include high placement rates for its PGP-DM graduates and plans for increased batch sizes, a new campus, international partnerships, and accreditation. The institute is also conducting research and establishing Centers of Excellence in various areas of social impact. Additionally, it offers programs for professionals and resources for grassroots organizations. Know More at www.isdm.org.in .  

ISDM invites individuals who share its vision to join in creating a dynamic, catalytic ecosystem and positioning India as a thought leader in Development Management, ultimately enabling sustainable social impact at scale.


Job Description

We're seeking a motivated Senior Research Associate to join our team for a project focusing on compliance capacity needs among small-midsize Non-profit Organizations (NPOs) and stakeholders. Responsibilities include conducting research, collecting data, and analyzing findings. This role involves supporting the creation of knowledge reports and supporting team processes for seamless delivery of planned outputs and goals, who is also interested in organizational development and management practices.


Key Responsibility Areas

  • Conduct qualitative and quantitative research to understand the compliance capacity needs of small-midsized NPOs and other stakeholders.
  • Develop research methodologies and tools, including surveys, interviews, and focus group guides.
  • Identify and engage with key stakeholders, including NPOs, regulatory bodies, and other relevant organizations.
  • Collect and analyse data, and co-create reports and presentations summarizing findings.
  • Work closely with the Research Lead, CIFSI to ensure project milestones are met and deliverables are completed on time and within budget.
  •  Provide input and support in developing recommendations and strategies based on research findings.
  • Present research findings to internal and external stakeholders, including project partners and funders.
  • Contribute to the development of knowledge products, such as research reports, policy briefs, articles, and presentations.
  • Stay abreast of developments in the field of compliance and non-profit management.



Educational Qualifications and Experience Required

  • Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field (e.g., social sciences, public policy, non-profit management).
  • Minimum of 7-8 years of experience in conducting research, preferably in the non-profit sector or related field.
  • Strong knowledge of research methodologies and data analysis techniques.
  • Experience in working with small-midsized NPOs or other stakeholders in the non-profit ecosystem.
  • Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present complex information in a clear and concise manner.
  • Project Management experience including the ability to lead and coordinate cross functional teams.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Proficiency in relevant software or tools, e.g., SPSS, NVivo, etc.


This role is on a contractual basis. Remuneration for this role will be commensurate with qualifications & experience. To learn more about us and apply, check out isdm.org.in/careers


ISDM is an equal-opportunity organization with a particular emphasis on affirmative action. The culture of the organization is one of professionalism while also one that greatly values relationships

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