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 - Legal 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. 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 make a meaningful difference in society.
Contact Detail:
National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) Recruiting Team
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We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer - Legal in London
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We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer - Legal in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Chief Operating Officer. Highlight your leadership experience, financial acumen, and any relevant operational successes that align with NIESR's mission.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be a two-page masterpiece! Use it to showcase how your skills and experiences meet the job requirements. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your People Skills:Since this role involves significant people management, don’t forget to highlight your leadership style and how you've built positive, high-performing teams in the past. We want to see your collaborative and empathetic approach!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. Make sure to double-check your documents before hitting send, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand NIESR's mission and the role of COO. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and how they impact the economy and society. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and show that you're aligned with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach, especially in complex organisations. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams through change and improved operational efficiency. Highlight your collaborative and empathetic style, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Financial Acumen is Key
Since the role involves overseeing financial strategy and compliance, brush up on your financial management skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience with budgeting, financial reporting, and risk management. Use concrete examples to illustrate your expertise in these areas.
✨Engage with Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about NIESR’s strategic objectives and how the COO role fits into their future plans. This shows your proactive mindset and helps you gauge if the organisation aligns with your values and career aspirations.
