At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research programmes on Africa, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific while inspiring your team.
- Company: Join Chatham House, a prestigious policy institute dedicated to improving global relations.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive environment that values diversity.
- Other info: This part-time role offers potential for full-time work and visa sponsorship for the right candidate.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on international policy while collaborating with top experts in the field.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and expertise in geopolitical analysis, especially regarding China.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 168000 £ per year.
Research Director – Africa, Middle East and North Africa, Asia-Pacific. The Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House) seeks an established and inspiring leader to oversee three regional programmes: Africa, the Middle East and North Africa, and Asia-Pacific. The role sits within the Executive Leadership Team and focuses on intellectual leadership, programme management, and strategic leadership across these regions.
Responsibilities- Offer intellectual leadership on research work and detailed commentary on reports, expert comments, and the convening of the three regional programmes; line manage the programme directors.
- Oversee programme budgets, support fundraising, and ensure credible funding plans to help the programmes breakeven or better.
- Act as a leader within Chatham House through ELT and the research directors’ meetings, guiding research priorities, approving proposals and publications, and representing the House in external fora.
- Lead the three regional teams, review proposals and reports, and inspire originality and high standards.
- Review budgets, support revenue generation, and control costs; participate in ELT and Council discussions on strategy and budgets; represent programme outputs and financial performance.
- Participate in annual pay and promotions decisions; act as an ambassador to elevate Chatham House and programme profiles via external engagements.
- Contribute to the advancement of the Institute’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) strategy.
The role is envisioned as 2 days per week, with potential to extend to five days if combined with additional research work and fundraising priorities.
Person SpecificationExperience- Recognition for your work with a demonstrable body of research and impact.
- Experience in fundraising and securing research funding; ability to develop credible plans for funding.
- Experience in researching and writing policy analysis for diverse audiences; familiarity with China’s role and related geopolitical and geoeconomic considerations is advantageous.
- Experience communicating research to high-level policymakers and diverse audiences.
- Experience formulating successful research grant proposals and collaborating with donors.
- Track record in financial planning and management; experience leading a large team.
- Understanding and commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) practices.
- Excellent communication skills, able to convey complex ideas clearly both in speech and in writing.
- Gravitas to operate at international levels with a diverse stakeholder base.
- Organised research and data analysis skills; ability to prioritise and meet tight deadlines.
- EDI commitment and implementation in research activities.
- Salary: £120,000 per year, FTE. Contract: Part-time, 2 days per week, permanent, with potential to extend to full-time with additional research and fundraising work.
- Location: Hybrid (office/home). Expectation of in-person attendance, travel within the UK and beyond, and attendance at events/out of hours.
- Benefits: approximately 37 days’ annual leave pro rata (including public holidays and closure days), pension salary exchange, employee assistance programme, parental leave, flexible working, and other lifestyle benefits.
- Visa sponsorship considered for the right candidate.
- Closing Date: Tuesday 30 September 2025 (Midnight, UK time).
Note: The Job Description may not be available after the closing date; please keep a copy for your records.
Additional- Seniority level: Director
- Employment type: Part-time
- Job function: Research, Analyst, and Information Technology; Industries: Think Tanks
We are an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and do not discriminate on protected characteristics. If you need any support to improve your application experience, please contact HR@Chathamhouse.org.
#J-18808-LjbffrResearch Director – Africa, Middle East and North Africa, Asia-Pacific in London employer: Chatham House
The Royal Institute of International Affairs is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment in London. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees benefit from generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth within a collaborative culture that values innovative research and impactful policy-making. The chance to lead significant regional programmes while engaging with global experts makes this role particularly rewarding for those passionate about international relations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Director – Africa, Middle East and North Africa, Asia-Pacific in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in international relations and policy analysis, especially those who have experience with Chatham House or similar organisations. Attend relevant conferences and seminars to make connections and learn about the latest trends in research and policy.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Chatham House's recent publications and research projects, particularly those related to Africa, the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia-Pacific. This will help you understand their focus areas and demonstrate your knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by engaging in discussions about current geopolitical issues, particularly regarding China’s role in global affairs. Being able to articulate your insights on these topics can set you apart as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider volunteering for or collaborating with organisations that focus on EDI (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion) initiatives. This experience can enhance your profile and align with Chatham House's commitment to these values.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Director – Africa, Middle East and North Africa, Asia-Pacific in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Research Director position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in leading research teams, managing budgets, and your understanding of geopolitical issues, particularly regarding China. Use specific examples to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
Showcase Communication Skills:Given the importance of communication in this role, ensure your application reflects your ability to convey complex ideas clearly. Consider including examples of your written work or presentations that showcase your skills in this area.
Demonstrate Commitment to EDI:Chatham House values diversity and inclusion. In your application, discuss your understanding of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) practices and how you have implemented these in your previous roles or research activities.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chatham House
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Research Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your leadership style and how you foster collaboration and creativity.
✨Highlight Your Expertise on China
Given the emphasis on China's role in global affairs, be ready to discuss your knowledge and insights on this topic. Prepare to articulate your understanding of China's geopolitical and geoeconomic implications, as well as how this relates to the programmes you'll oversee.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
Since overseeing budgets and fundraising is a key responsibility, brush up on your financial planning skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience with budget management and how you've successfully raised funds for previous projects.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Excellent communication is crucial for this role. Practice conveying complex ideas clearly and concisely, both in writing and verbally. You may be asked to present your thoughts on research findings or policy recommendations, so ensure you're comfortable articulating your ideas.
