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 youEssential
· 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.
1.