Short-term contract opportunity for researcher: User research on reporting complex ownership structures

Terms of reference for researcher: User research on reporting complex ownership structures

Information on full ownership structures, not just the individuals who indirectly own and control a company, is important to users of beneficial ownership (BO) data. Increasingly, BO reporting regimes require companies to declare more details on intermediaries in ownership chains.

Open Ownership is seeking to hire a short-term contractor to design and conduct qualitative user research to better understand:

• How multinational companies manage and store information on their complex ownership structures, and comply with different obligations in the countries they span;
• How company registers collect, or plan to collect, complex ownership information from companies; and
• What tools or support would help company registers collect this information in the least burdensome ways.

Full details: Read the full Terms of Reference.

Assignment details

The consultant will support the following areas of work:

• Review background materials and draft a research plan
• Conduct research and analysis
• Synthesise findings and practical recommendations

They will deliver a research plan and materials; analysis and a draft report; and a final research report and presentation.

The contract is anticipated to start in December 2026 and finish on 31 March 2027, with final deliverables due by 31 March 2027. These dates are indicative and may be adjusted in consultation with the selected candidate at project kick-off.

Application process

To apply, contractors should submit:

• A CV highlighting at least one specific example of a relevant project or piece of work that demonstrates the applicant’s experience in qualitative research, relevant research experience with businesses, regulated entities or government, and any relevant language skills.
• A written proposal of 500-1,000 words on how you will successfully deliver on this contract.
• A proposed budget for the work, including a breakdown of days and rates, up to a maximum of £25,000.

Based on the bids received, we will include at least one round of interviews with selected applicants as part of the selection process.

Please send your application to [email protected] before 23:59 UTC on 15 November 2026.

Please note, we may interview suitable candidates on a rolling basis during the application period.