Manager, Research

Powered by Passion. United by Purpose. Build for Impact.

At Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Partnership (MLSE), we exist to deliver the ultimate fan experience by lifting trophies, spirits, and communities – united as one.

We're more than a workplace. We are a team of passionate people, boldly building the future of sport and entertainment, together. We believe in the power of play, the strength of collaboration, and the energy that comes from showing up with purpose.

From the ice to the pitch, the hardwood to the digital arena, we're proud to be the driving force behind the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), the Toronto Raptors (NBA), Toronto FC (MLS), Toronto Argonauts (CFL) and development teams with the Toronto Marlies (AHL), Raptors 905 (NBA G League), Toronto FC II (MLS NEXT Pro League) and Raptors Uprising Gaming Club, the Toronto Raptors Esports franchise in the NBA 2K League.

We bring these teams – and world-class entertainment – to life at our iconic venues, including Scotiabank Arena, BMO Field, Coca-Cola Coliseum, Ford Performance Centre, BMO Training Ground, and OVO Athletic Centre. Off the field, we serve up elevated dining at e11even, Real Sports, and our signature club spaces like Hot Stove Club, ScotiaClub, and Platinum Club.

Through MLSE Foundation and MLSE LaunchPad, we use the power of sport to help youth facing barriers reach their full potential. Since 2009, we've invested more than $45 million into Ontario communities - and we're just getting started.

This is what it means to be One MLSE: a culture where everyone plays a role, everyone belongs, and everyone contributes to something bigger than themselves.

So, if you're ready to play with purpose, grow with passion, and win as one, we'd love to have you on our team.

** We know that great candidates come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Even if you do not meet every qualification listed, we encourage you to apply. Your unique perspective, transferable skills, and lived experience may be exactly what we're looking for. **

Job Description

MLSE LaunchPad is a 42,000 sq. ft. Sport For Development facility where youth facing barriers use sport to recognize and reach their potential. Supported by MLSE's professional sports teams- the Toronto Maple Leafs , Toronto Raptors, Toronto Argonauts and Toronto FC, it is the first facility of its kind in North America. As a collaborative space promoting social change by leveraging sport, education and research, our programming is focused on four pillars: Healthy Body, Healthy Mind, Ready for School and Ready for Work. To learn more visit

MLSE LaunchPad is seeking an experienced research professional to lead research and evaluation initiatives for a 12-month term. The successful candidate will bring expertise in data management, analysis, mixed-method research, and program evaluation—particularly in youth-focused, community-based sport settings. This role will drive the implementation of our impact measurement strategy .

• Conduct advanced statistical analyses and interpret findings across multiple programs.

• Oversee data governance, including security, storage, structuring, and cleaning.

• Design compelling data visualizations, dashboards, and infographics for diverse audiences.

• Monitor industry trends and integrate best practices into research and evaluation processes.

• Collaborate with program teams and stakeholders to inform continuous improvement.

• Lead observational evaluations and mixed-method research projects.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with partners, including academic and community organizations.

• Manage participant recruitment and informed consent processes.

• Ensure compliance with data collection standards and equity practices.

• Supervise two Research Coordinators and support project-based staff and students.

• Prepare reports and presentations for internal teams, funders, and stakeholders.

• Facilitate knowledge mobilization through events, training, and tailored communications.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in social sciences, health sciences, statistics, or related field (preferred).

• 3–5 years of relevant research experience.

• Proven experience working with youth facing barriers.

• Familiarity with Sport for Development, sport sociology, or physical activity research.

• Demonstrated leadership and team management experience.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge mobilization skills in collaborative contexts.

• Exceptional organizational and documentation abilities with attention to detail.

• Advanced proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Expertise in Python, R, or similar tools for data analysis.

• Familiarity with AI applications in research and evaluation.

• Ability to manage and analyze large, complex datasets.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Skilled in creating custom data visualizations and dashboards using open-source and commercial tools.

Please note:

• this is a 1-year contract with benefits to cover a leave.

• please apply by Wednesday , Dec. 10 th at 11:59 pm.

We're glad you're here. Once you apply, we'll follow up by email, and you can track everything in your Candidate Portal . Want instant updates? Opt-in for SMS notifications to stay in the loop.

At MLSE, we are committed to building an equitable , diverse and inclusive organization. We are an equal opportunity employer, and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. MLSE will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in the job application process. If you have difficulty using our online application system and you need an accommodation due to a disability, please email . This email is only for accommodation requests. Resumes sent to this email address will not be considered.