At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead NIESR's operations, ensuring effective systems and processes for strategic objectives.
- Company: Join a leading independent research institute shaping economic and social understanding.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: NIESR values diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while driving organisational change.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in complex organisations with strong financial acumen required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
The National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) is an independent research institute improving understanding of the economy and society through rigorous, policy-relevant research and public engagement. We work with policymakers, academics and partners in the UK and internationally to inform decision-making and public debate.
As Chief Operating Officer (COO), you will lead NIESR’s internal operations, ensuring the Institute has the systems, processes, people capability and financial discipline required to deliver its strategic objectives effectively and sustainably. Working closely with the Director and Research Director, you will shape and execute the business plan, strengthen organisational effectiveness, and help lead NIESR through a period of strategic change. This is a new role, combining strategic leadership with a hands-on approach to delivery.
Key responsibilities
- Strategic leadership & organisational effectiveness: Shape, implement and monitor the business plan and longer-term strategy; translate priorities into operational plans and clear accountabilities; lead cross-organisational projects (systems, change and organisational development); deputise for the Director on operational matters as needed.
- Operations & professional services: Provide leadership across finance, people, governance, premises, legal, IT and related operational services; ensure policies and processes are fit for purpose and aligned to best practice; strengthen coordination, accountability and service quality; review and evolve structures to support strategic priorities and long-term sustainability; drive continuous improvement in operational efficiency and management information.
- Finance & risk: Lead financial strategy, budgeting and planning; oversee financial modelling, management accounting and reporting; ensure compliance with charity accounting, charity law and regulatory obligations; lead risk management, internal controls and compliance.
- People & culture: Provide senior leadership on people management, organisational design and workforce planning; build a positive, high-performing and inclusive culture; ensure HR policies are implemented consistently; lead organisational change and complex people issues.
- Development, engagement & governance: Provide oversight of engagement and development functions (via Heads of Engagement/Development); align communications, events, commercial activity and philanthropic income development to strategic priorities; support governance processes and reporting with the Director and trustees.
About you
Essential
- Senior leadership experience in a complex organisation, with substantial responsibility for operations, people, finance and organisational risk (ideally within the not-for-profit, research, professional services, or public policy sectors).
- Strong financial and commercial acumen, including oversight of budgeting, planning, financial management and organisational performance.
- Exceptional people leadership and management capability, with sound HR knowledge and a collaborative, empathetic leadership style.
- Proven track record of strengthening organisational performance and improving operational efficiency.
- Demonstrated ability to lead through complex change and organisational development.
- Strong organisational and delivery skills, able to manage multiple workstreams and competing priorities.
- Ability to combine strategic leadership with a practical, hands-on approach to execution and problem-solving.
- Strong IT literacy, with confidence using digital and AI-enabled tools to improve effectiveness and efficiency.
- Good understanding of governance, charity law and relevant regulatory requirements.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Desirable
- Professional experience in economics or strong interest in economics.
- A recognised accounting, finance, or related professional qualification.
- Experience of leading business development, communications, events or external engagement functions.
- Experience of working with trustees or governing boards.
- Experience in organisations with mixed funding models, including commercial and philanthropic income, and grant funding.
Personal attributes
- Solutions-focused and pragmatic, with a strong “can-do” mindset.
- Resilient and confident in leading through ambiguity and change.
- Self-motivated, with high levels of integrity and judgement.
- Comfortable working at both strategic and operational levels, with a willingness to engage directly in delivery when required.
- A credible, engaged leader who provides calm and effective direction in challenging situations.
How to apply
Please submit a CV and a two-page covering letter outlining how you meet the requirements of the role. For more information, please refer to the Job and Person Specification. Please submit applications to HR@NIESR.ac.uk. Closing date: 5th June 2026 (we may close the advert early if the right candidate is found).
NIESR is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and will consider reasonable adjustments to support candidates through the recruitment process.
Chief Operating Officer in City of London employer: National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR)
At the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR), we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture. Our London-based team enjoys competitive salaries, hybrid working arrangements, and ample opportunities for professional growth, all while contributing to impactful research that shapes public policy. Join us in a role where your strategic leadership will not only drive organisational effectiveness but also enhance the understanding of economic and social issues on a national and international scale.
Contact Detail:
National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience and how it aligns with the role of COO. Highlight your leadership skills and operational expertise, and don’t forget to showcase your problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t miss out on the chance to stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the COO role at NIESR. Highlight your senior leadership experience and how it aligns with their needs. We want to see how your skills in operations, finance, and people management can shine through!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story! Use it to explain how you meet the requirements of the role and why you're passionate about working with NIESR. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm and a clear connection to our mission.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to improve operational efficiency and lead through change. We’re all about results, so make sure to quantify your successes where possible!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR)
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into NIESR's mission and recent projects. Understand their strategic objectives and how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to their operations and organisational effectiveness.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in complex organisations. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed teams, improved operational efficiency, and led through change. This is crucial for a role like COO where people management is key.
✨Financial Savvy is Key
Brush up on your financial acumen. Be prepared to discuss your experience with budgeting, financial management, and compliance. NIESR will want to know how you can lead their financial strategy and ensure sustainability, so have specific examples ready.
✨Engage with Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking insightful questions. Inquire about NIESR’s current challenges or future plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the organisation aligns with your values and career goals.
