Chief of Staff and Senior Research Fellow

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) is the UK’s leading independent thinktank. Our pioneering research and ideas have shaped progressive policy making for more than three decades. From making the early case for the minimum wage and taking regional inequality to the top of the political agenda, to proposing a windfall tax on energy companies, our research and policy work has put forward practical solutions for the crises facing society - to enable justice, progress and change.

Are you a strategic thinker, exceptional communicator, and natural organiser with a passion for impact? We’re looking for a Chief of Staff to play a pivotal role in the future of our organisation.

As Chief of Staff at IPPR, you will serve as a ‘right hand’ to the senior leadership of the organisation. You will support the execution of strategic initiatives, get involved in high-profile research, facilitate internal communication and help ensure there is alignment across the organisation to deliver our mission. This is a unique opportunity to work at the heart of a dynamic, purpose-driven thinktank.

About the role

You will:

• Work with the executive director, director of policy and politics and senior leadership to implement and monitor strategic priorities.
• Work on high-profile research initiatives, co-authoring high-impact publications and outputs.
• Enhance the execution of internal communication and decision-making processes to ensure clarity, alignment, and momentum.
• Support the executive director in external engagements, including drafting briefings, speeches, and articles.
• Work with the senior leadership team to support a high-performing, inclusive, and collaborative organisational culture.
• Line manage the executive assistant to the executive director, supporting their development and performance.

About you

To be successful, you’ll need:

• Deep understanding of the UK political landscape and policy environment.
• Outstanding organisational and project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to influence and build trust at all levels.
• A proactive, calm, and solutions-focused approach to complex challenges.
• Experience working closely with senior leaders and managing competing priorities.
• A strong commitment to our values, including equity, inclusion, and collaboration.

Why join us?

You’ll be joining a passionate, mission-led team at a time of exciting growth and impact. This role offers a rare opportunity to work closely with senior leadership, shape strategic direction, and contribute meaningfully to research and policy that makes a difference.

This role is based in our London office, right in the heart of Westminster, placing you at the centre of UK policymaking and public affairs. We value the benefits of in-person collaboration and ask staff to spend at least 40 per cent of their working hours in the office. As part of our commitment to flexible working, we welcome applications from candidates seeking part-time hours, job-share arrangements, or other flexible options. We’re open to shaping the role around the right person, and all working patterns can be discussed at the interview stage.

IPPR is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all sections of the community, and from applicants with a range of professional and lived experiences. As an organisation engaging in critical debate about a wide range of progressive policy issues, we value the creativity and range of perspectives that a diverse team can provide.

Ready to apply?

For further information and full details on how to apply, please download the information pack from our website.

We’d be grateful if you could also complete our equality and diversity monitoring form

Closing date for applications: Monday 27 October 2025.

Interviews will take place in our London office on Thursday 6 November