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 focused on policy-relevant research.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in complex organisations, strong financial acumen, and people management skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) • London (hybrid) • Full-time
Reporting to: Director | Managing: Senior research staff/team leads
Salary: Competitive (please indicate salary expectations)
About NIESR
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.
The role
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 F/H in 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. Located in London, our hybrid working model offers flexibility while you lead impactful research initiatives that shape economic and social policies. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide ample opportunities for growth and professional advancement, ensuring that our team is equipped to navigate the complexities of the not-for-profit sector effectively.
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 F/H in 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 company and its culture. Understand their mission and values, especially since NIESR focuses on economic and social research. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your leadership experience and operational skills make you the perfect fit for the COO role. Keep it concise and impactful, highlighting your ability to drive organisational effectiveness.
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Don’t forget to 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.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer F/H in 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 can directly contribute to their strategic objectives.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be a two-page masterpiece! Use it to tell your story, focusing on your operational expertise and people management skills. We love seeing how you can lead through change and improve organisational performance.
Showcase Your Financial Acumen:Since finance is a big part of this role, don’t shy away from showcasing your financial strategy and budgeting experience. We want to know how you've managed finances in complex organisations before!
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through! NIESR values a positive and inclusive culture, so share your leadership style and how you build high-performing teams. We’re all about finding the right fit, so be yourself!
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. Understanding their research focus and how it impacts policy will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a COO, your leadership approach is crucial. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams through change, improved operational efficiency, and fostered a positive culture. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Financial Acumen is Key
Since the role involves financial strategy and risk management, brush up on your financial knowledge. Be prepared to discuss budgeting, compliance, and how you've previously managed financial performance in complex organisations.
✨Engage with Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your strategic thinking and interest in NIESR's future. Ask about their current challenges, how they measure success, or their vision for the organisation's growth. This shows you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely invested in their mission.
