Research Director – Africa, MENA & Asia-Pacific(UK Visa sponsorship available)

Job Description

About Chatham House

The Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House) is an independent policy institute based in London. Our mission is to improve international relations for a secure, prosperous, sustainable, and just world. We achieve this through research, convening discussions, and leveraging our global network of fellows.

The Role

We are seeking an established and inspiring leader to serve as Research Director, overseeing three key regional programmes: Africa, Middle East & North Africa, and Asia-Pacific. These programmes are central to Chatham House’s mission and play a vital role in shaping the global debate on the evolving world order.

The Research Director is part of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) and will:

Provide intellectual leadership and guidance across research and convening.

Manage and support programme directors.

Oversee budgets and support fundraising.

Contribute to Chatham House’s overall strategy and leadership.

The role is expected to be 2 days per week, but there is an opportunity to extend to full-time by combining it with research and fundraising responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership on research direction, ensuring quality, impartiality, and impact.

Oversee Africa, MENA, and Asia-Pacific programme teams, reviewing proposals, events, reports, and budgets.

Lead thinking on global issues, with a particular focus on China’s role and wider geopolitical and economic implications.

Support fundraising efforts and ensure financial sustainability of the programmes.

Actively participate in the ELT, contributing to decisions on research priorities, budgets, pay, and promotions.

Represent Chatham House externally at events, media, and conferences, building relationships and elevating the institute’s profile.

Promote collaboration across teams and support Chatham House’s Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) strategy.

Person Specification

Experience

Recognized expertise and a strong body of impactful work in international affairs.

Proven leadership in managing teams and programmes.

Strong background in research, policy analysis, and writing for diverse audiences.

Experience in engaging with policymakers, donors, and global stakeholders.

Financial management and fundraising experience.

Knowledge of China’s global role (geopolitical and economic) is highly desirable.

Commitment to EDI principles in research and organizational practices.

Skills

Exceptional written and verbal communication.

Ability to present complex ideas clearly to varied audiences.

Strong research and analytical abilities.

Confidence and gravitas to operate at the highest international levels.

Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to work to tight deadlines.

Benefits

Salary: £120,000 per year FTE (pro rata for part-time).

37 days annual leave (pro rata), including public holidays and Chatham House closure days.

Pension salary exchange scheme.

Flexible working and hybrid arrangements.

Employee assistance programme and parental leave.

Opportunity for international travel and external engagement.

Visa sponsorship considered for the right candidate.