Director of Research and Economic Analysis

Job Description

Job Description

SUMMARY :

About the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA)

The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) owns and oversees the operations of various facilities such as the Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (MCEC), The Lawn On D, and the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center. We are committed to delivering world-class event experiences that drive statewide economic growth, foster innovation, and exceed customer expectations all while cultivating a workplace culture that values excellence, inclusivity, and employee well-being.

Position Overview :

The Director of Research & Economic Analysis serves as the Authority’s lead economist, responsible for advancing data-driven decision-making across capital planning, operations, and public policy. This role brings rigorous economic analysis to bear on the Authority’s core mission: understanding and maximizing the long-term economic, fiscal, and community impact of its convention, meeting, and event assets.

Reporting to the Chief of Staff, the Director will develop and lead a research agenda that informs investment decisions, evaluates performance, quantifies community impact, and strengthens the Authority’s credibility with policymakers, stakeholders, and the public. This position will perform other work-related duties as directed by the Chief of Staff.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES :

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. The MCCA reserves the right to modify this job description at any time, with or without notice.

Economic Analysis & Forecasting

• Develop and maintain models to forecast convention activity, attendance, hotel demand, and associated tax revenues
• Analyze macroeconomic, industry, and regional trends affecting the meetings and events sector
• Produce scenario analysis to inform strategic and capital planning decisions

Capital Planning & Investment Strategy

• Evaluate proposed capital projects and expansion using cost-benefit analysis, economic impact modeling, and risk assessment
• Partner with finance, capital planning, real estate, and marketing teams to assess long-term return on public investment
• In partnership with the Executive Director and CFO, support bond, financing, and legislative processes with rigorous economic justification

Policy & Public Impact

• Analyze the Authority’s economic and fiscal impact at the local and state levels
• Develop materials that clearly communicate return on investment to policymakers and the public
• Monitor competitive positioning relative to peer convention destinations and public authorities

Research Leadership & Data Strategy

• Establish and manage a comprehensive research program, including internal data collection and external partnerships
• Oversee the development of dashboards, reports, and performance metrics used across the organization
• Ensure methodological rigor and transparency in all analyses

Stakeholder Engagement & Thought Leadership

• Serve as a trusted internal advisor to executive leadership and the Board
• Present findings to government officials, industry partners, and civic stakeholders
• Represent the Authority in industry forums and contribute to broader conversations about economic development and tourism
• Perform other duties as assigned

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS :

• Advanced degree (PhD or Master’s) in economics, public policy, or a closely related field
• 10 – 15+ years of relevant experience, preferably in a public authority, government agency, consulting firm, or research institution
• Demonstrated expertise in economic impact analysis, forecasting, and cost-benefit evaluation
• Strong understanding of regional economics, public finance, and infrastructure investment
• Experience translating complex analysis into clear, persuasive insights for non-technical audiences
• Familiarity with the meetings, tourism, or hospitality sectors is a plus, but not required

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS :

• Deep grounding in economic theory paired with practical application
• Advanced quantitative and modeling skills (e.g., econometrics, forecasting, scenario analysis)
• Strategic thinking with the ability to connect analysis to real-world decisions
• Strong communication skills—both written and verbal
• High degree of intellectual independence and professional judgment

WORK SCHEDULE : Standard business hours, with the understanding that schedules may vary based on operational needs. This may include occasional early mornings, late evenings, or weekends as business needs require.

All positions within the MCCA are designated as on-site roles . As such, this position requires in-person attendance five days per week. At this time, remote or hybrid work arrangements are not part of MCCA's operational model.

DRESS CODE : Business formal. Employees are expected to project dignity and decorum appropriate for public-facing leadership roles through professional dress and grooming.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: This role is primarily sedentary and requires prolonged sitting. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities will be provided in accordance with MCCA’s accommodation policy and applicable laws.

EMPLOYMENT AT-WILL: Employment with the MCCA is at-will. This means that either the employee or the MCCA may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, and nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to alter this at-will relationship.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO) STATEMENT: The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome qualified applicants of all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected category.