At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research and influence European politics while managing a dynamic team.
- Company: Join the Centre for European Reform, a leading think-tank in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Permanent role with opportunities for travel and networking across Europe.
- Why this job: Shape policy debates and make a real impact on EU-UK relations.
- Qualifications: Expertise in European affairs and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 € per year.
The Centre for European Reform (CER) is a London-based independent, politically non-aligned think-tank focused on European politics, economics, security and the EU-UK relationship. The CER is seeking a Director to provide intellectual leadership, manage funding and build the organisation’s influence.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide intellectual leadership and set research agenda for the CER.
- Identify themes and gap analyses for the work programme.
- Maintain and expand funding relationships with donors, EU projects and foundations.
- Guide researchers, administrative staff and volunteers in a non-hierarchical environment.
- Develop and maintain the CER’s reputation through policy papers, evidence to parliamentary committees and media appearances.
- Represent the CER at conferences, in parliament and to senior officials in the EU, UK and other international bodies.
- Travel to Brussels, London, Berlin, Washington and occasionally China.
- Support internal editorial process and contribute to editing of research outputs.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Expertise in European politics, economics, security or EU-UK relations.
- Track record of original, persuasive policy writing and influencing policy debates.
- Experience in fundraising and managing annual budgets of at least £1.4 million.
- People skills to manage a dispersed team across London, Brussels and Berlin.
- Strong networking with senior government, EU and international bodies.
- Excellent written and oral communication in English; proficiency in another major European language is an advantage.
- Experience with media appearances, television, radio and high-profile conferences.
Benefits & Conditions
- Competitive salary.
- Open and transparent recruitment process.
- Permanent position based in London, UK.
- Commitment to non-discrimination on grounds of gender, race, sexuality or age.
Application Details
Send CV, cover letter and links to publications or media appearances to Sophie Valiant by 12:00 London time on Friday 22 May 2026. Interview date: Thursday 02 July. Start date: January 2027.
Director, Centre for European Reform in London employer: Local Government Chronicle
The Centre for European Reform (CER) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment in the heart of London. With a commitment to fostering a non-hierarchical work culture, employees are encouraged to contribute their ideas and expertise while benefiting from opportunities for professional growth and networking with influential figures across Europe and beyond. The CER's dedication to inclusivity and its focus on impactful research make it a rewarding place for those passionate about shaping European policy and politics.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, Centre for European Reform in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the Centre for European Reform. Attend events, engage on social media, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare to discuss your insights on European politics and economics during interviews. Bring examples of your policy writing and how you've influenced debates to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get comfortable with public speaking and media appearances. Consider mock interviews or speaking engagements to boost your confidence before the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission at StudySmarter.
We think you need these skills to ace Director, Centre for European Reform in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your expertise in European politics and your experience in policy writing. We want to see how you can bring intellectual leadership to the CER, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Fundraising Experience:Since managing funding relationships is key for this role, be sure to detail your experience with fundraising and budget management. We’re looking for someone who can maintain and expand our funding sources, so let us know how you've done this in the past.
Highlight Your People Skills:Managing a dispersed team is no small feat! Share examples of how you’ve successfully guided teams in a non-hierarchical environment. We want to see your people skills in action, so give us the good stuff!
Polish Your Writing Samples:Since strong written communication is crucial, make sure your CV and any links to publications are top-notch. We love original and persuasive policy writing, so choose samples that best showcase your ability to influence debates and engage with audiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at Local Government Chronicle
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in European politics, economics, and security. Brush up on current events and key issues affecting the EU-UK relationship. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've provided intellectual leadership in previous roles. Think about times when you’ve guided teams or set research agendas. Be ready to discuss how you can inspire and manage a diverse team across different locations.
✨Fundraising Focus
Since managing funding is a key part of the job, come prepared with strategies you've used in the past to secure funding. Highlight any successful relationships you've built with donors or foundations, and be ready to discuss how you would expand these at the CER.
✨Practice Your Communication
Given the importance of media appearances and public speaking, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and persuasively. Consider doing mock interviews or presenting your ideas to friends to get comfortable with your delivery and ensure you make a strong impression.
