In the newly created role, Kaur-Ballagan (pictured) will establish and lead a new research unit, grow the team and develop and deliver the research strategy for the charity, which supports the work of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Prior to joining The Royal Foundation, Kully was head of the crime, cohesion and security team at Ipsos Mori, where she developed and led mixed methods social research programmes on behalf of government departments. Kully also led Ipsos Mori’s inclusion and diversity research programme.  

The research unit will help to inform the foundation’s work through evidence-based analysis and evaluation of impact, and will commission and publish original research that aims to inform wider understanding.

Jason Knauf, chief executive, The Royal Foundation, said: “Kully was recruited to The Royal Foundation following an extensive international search earlier this year. I am excited to have someone of her calibre to lead our research work and look forward to welcoming her to the team in September.”