In her new role, which she will take up on June 1, Kelley (pictured) will lead a team of over 50 researchers with expertise in policy areas such as health, crime and justice and education, as well as NatCen’s evaluation work. 

Kelley has previously worked in policy and research roles at UK charities such as the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Barnardo’s and Refugee Council. She was most recently as the Department for Work and Pensions, where she was delivery manager.

“The Policy Research Centre delivers high-quality qualitative and mixed-methods research, as well as analyses and evaluations; we are delighted to have attracted someone with Nancy’s policy and research expertise to lead this important part of NatCen’s work,” said Guy Goodwin, chief executive of NatCen Social Research.