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- Tasks: Lead impactful research on global governance and security, shaping strategic direction.
- Company: Renowned policy institute in London with a century of expertise.
- Benefits: Generous leave, flexible working, and a stimulating professional environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in international relations and lead innovative research programmes.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership, fundraising success, and ability to communicate complex ideas.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for travel and high-level engagement.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 140000 £ per year.
We are a policy institute based in London known for rigour and vigorous independence with a reputation built on more than a century of convening, research and proposals to solve the world's most intractable problems. Our mission is to help improve international relations in pursuit of a secure, prosperous, sustainable and just world. We do this through original research and by convening discussion, through our core teams, our global network of fellows and our invited guests.
We are seeking an established and inspiring Research Director to lead Chatham House's Global Governance and Security Centre. This is an exceptional opportunity to provide intellectual leadership across key research programmes, increasing the depth and reach of our work in areas crucial to our mission. As part of this role, you'll also join our Executive Leadership Team, shaping the strategic direction of our institute.
The role broadly falls into three areas:
- Offering intellectual leadership on research work and detailed commentary on reports, expert comments and convening of the individual programmes, and line managing the programme directors of these areas.
- Acting as a leader of Chatham House, through the ELT and the research directors' meeting.
- Ensuring the centre hits its budget.
What We're Looking For:
- A substantial body of influential, policy-relevant work with demonstrated impact.
- Experience developing and leading teams, embedding positive cultural change.
- Proven success in fundraising and grant proposal development.
- The ability to communicate complex ideas clearly to diverse audiences, including high-level policymakers.
- A track record of financial planning and management.
- Gravitas to operate at the highest international levels.
Benefits include approximately 37 days annual leave (including public holidays and Chatham House closure days), pension salary exchange, employee assistance programme, parental leave, flexible working and other benefits designed to suit your lifestyle. All of this, in a professional, engaging and intellectually stimulating environment.
Salary: £120,000 per year. Contract: Permanent. We envision the Research Director role will take 2 days a week. There will also be an opportunity to extend this to five days, by combining this role with research work (depending on the priorities of Chatham House).
Location: Hybrid (Office/home). Chatham House operates a hybrid working environment with team members expected to attend our building typically three days a week. However, please note this role is likely to require higher levels of in person attendance, travel within the UK and beyond and attendance of events and meetings out of hours.
Application closing Date: Sunday 11 January 2026, 23:59 GMT.
Department: Research. Locations: London.
Research Director - Global Governance and Security Centre employer: Chatham House
Contact Detail:
Chatham House Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Director - Global Governance and Security Centre
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of global governance and security. Attend relevant events, webinars, or discussions where you can meet potential colleagues or mentors. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends and challenges in international relations. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the mission of Chatham House. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but a thought leader!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Chatham House. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Director - Global Governance and Security Centre
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and the mission of Chatham House. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with our goals in global governance and security.
Be Clear and Concise: When you're putting together your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language to communicate your ideas and experiences, especially when discussing complex topics. We want to see your ability to convey information effectively!
Show Your Leadership Skills: As a Research Director, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Share specific examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past, and how you've made a positive impact in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chatham House
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into Chatham House's recent publications and research initiatives. Familiarise yourself with their key projects in global governance and security, as well as any influential policy work they've done. This will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams and driven cultural change in previous roles. Highlight your experience in managing diverse groups and fostering collaboration, as this is crucial for the Research Director position. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role requires communicating complex ideas to high-level policymakers, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully conveyed intricate research findings to varied audiences in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to bridge the gap between research and policy.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
Given the importance of financial planning and management in this role, brush up on your experience with budgeting and fundraising. Be prepared to discuss your strategies for securing grants and how you've managed financial resources in previous positions. This will reassure the interviewers of your capability to meet the centre's budgetary goals.
