Director of Policy & Governance

Director of Policy & Governance

London Full-Time 120000 - 140000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead policy and governance initiatives, advocate for members, and shape boardroom discussions.
  • Company: Join the IoD, the UK's top membership organisation for business leaders and directors.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work options, and opportunities for professional development.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on UK governance while working in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
  • Qualifications: Senior-level experience in policy or governance, with strong communication and leadership skills required.
  • Other info: Apply by 3rd August 2025 to be part of shaping the future of business governance.

The predicted salary is between 120000 - 140000 £ per year.

Salary: £120,000 – £140,000 + benefits

Location: 116 Pall Mall, London / Hybrid

About the Institute of Directors (IoD):

The Institute of Directors is the UK’s leading membership organisation for company directors and business leaders. We champion good governance, advocate on behalf of the director community, and provide development opportunities that support board effectiveness and long-term success.

About the Director of Policy and Governance role:

We are now seeking a collaborative, intellectually grounded, and strategic leader to join our Executive Team as Director of Policy and Governance . This is a pivotal role, charged with shaping the IoD’s policy agenda, advancing our voice and the voice of our members in UK and global governance debates, and ensuring our influence reflects the evolving needs of modern business leaders and Directors.

As the Director of Policy and Governance you’ll be responsible for:

  • Policy leadership : Setting the strategic direction for our policy and governance agenda, rooted in evidence, member priorities, and real-world business impact.
  • High-profile advocacy : Acting as a national and international spokesperson, engaging government ministers, regulators, media and industry forums.
  • Governance thought leadership : Shaping public and member understanding of boardroom issues, ESG responsibilities, and regulatory change.
  • Team empowerment : Leading a multidisciplinary team while fostering a collaborative and agile culture across the organisation.

What we’re looking for:

  • A credible leader with senior-level experience in policy, governance, regulation, or public affairs.
  • Outstanding communicator and relationship-builder with a strong grasp of UK corporate governance and the broader policy landscape.
  • Proven ability to influence public policy through authoritative research, thought leadership, and strategic engagement.
  • Strategic, resilient, and values-led, someone who can drive change, build consensus, and thrive in high-profile environments.
  • Motivating and supportive leader of a team who encourages curiosity, rigour, initiative and collaboration while investing in the growth and development of those around you.

Why join the IoD?

This is a rare opportunity to shape the governance conversation at the heart of the UK’s business community, championing pragmatic policy solutions in service of better boardrooms and a stronger economy.

How to Apply

For more information on the opportunity of Director of Policy & Governance for the IoD, including access to the full candidate brief, please visit

Alternatively, click on the “Apply for this Role” button. You will be redirected to the website of our selected search partner, Berwick Partners.

For an informal conversation about the role please contact Tom Ewen and/or Lisa Henry from our selected search partner, Berwick Partners. You can contact them on or

To apply please submit an up-to-date copy of your CV along with a covering statement which highlights your motivations towards this opportunity and capabilities in a position of this kind.

The close date for your application is Sunday 3rd August 2025

If you have difficulties applyingonline, please contact the Berwick Partners recruitment team on

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Director of Policy & Governance employer: Institute of Directors

The Institute of Directors (IoD) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at its prestigious London location. With a strong commitment to employee development and a collaborative culture, the IoD empowers its team members to lead impactful policy discussions that shape the future of governance in the UK. Joining the IoD means being part of a respected organisation that values innovation, advocacy, and the professional growth of its employees.
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Contact Detail:

Institute of Directors Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Director of Policy & Governance

Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the governance and policy sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or forums where you can meet influential figures and discuss current trends. This will not only expand your connections but also give you insights into the expectations for the role.

Tip Number 2

Stay updated on the latest developments in UK corporate governance and public policy. Follow relevant news outlets, subscribe to industry publications, and engage with thought leaders on social media. This knowledge will help you articulate your understanding of the landscape during discussions.

Tip Number 3

Prepare to demonstrate your leadership style and how you empower teams. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you fostered collaboration and innovation. Being able to share these stories will showcase your fit for the role.

Tip Number 4

Engage with the IoD’s current initiatives and understand their strategic goals. Familiarise yourself with their recent publications and advocacy efforts. This will allow you to speak knowledgeably about how you can contribute to their mission during interviews.

We think you need these skills to ace Director of Policy & Governance

Strategic Leadership
Policy Development
Public Affairs Expertise
Stakeholder Engagement
Excellent Communication Skills
Relationship Building
Governance Knowledge
Advocacy Skills
Research and Analysis
Change Management
Team Leadership
Collaboration and Teamwork
Resilience
Influencing Skills
Understanding of ESG Responsibilities

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Director of Policy & Governance role. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with their needs.

Craft a Compelling Covering Statement: Your covering statement should clearly articulate your motivations for applying and how your skills and experiences make you a suitable candidate. Highlight specific examples of your leadership in policy and governance.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, focus on your senior-level experience in policy, governance, or public affairs. Use quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your impact in previous roles, especially in influencing public policy.

Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread your CV and covering statement. Check for any grammatical errors or typos, and ensure that your documents are clear and professional.

How to prepare for a job interview at Institute of Directors

Understand the Policy Landscape

Familiarise yourself with current UK corporate governance issues and the broader policy landscape. Being able to discuss recent developments and their implications will demonstrate your expertise and readiness for the role.

Showcase Your Advocacy Skills

Prepare examples of how you've successfully influenced public policy in the past. Highlight your experience in engaging with government officials, media, and industry forums to showcase your ability to act as a spokesperson.

Emphasise Team Leadership

Be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you empower teams. Share specific instances where you've fostered collaboration and encouraged growth within your team, aligning with the IoD's values.

Articulate Your Vision

Think about the strategic direction you would set for the IoD’s policy agenda. Be prepared to articulate your vision clearly, demonstrating how it aligns with member priorities and the evolving needs of business leaders.

Director of Policy & Governance
Institute of Directors
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