Director of Programmes (and Deputy CEO)

Working together for peace, justice, human rights and a sustainable planet

Founded by Nelson Mandela in 2007, The Elders is an independent group of global leaders with a bold vision for a world where people live in peace, conscious of their common humanity and their shared responsibilities for each other, the planet and future generations; where there is universal respect for human rights; where poverty has been eliminated and people are free from fear and oppression, and able to fulfil their true potential.

At the core of their work, The Elders use their vast experience and influence to engage with global leaders and civil society, through private diplomacy, public advocacy and partnerships, to tackle existential threats, champion global solutions, and promote ethical leadership that upholds the dignity of all.

As the world is facing a set of threats that put all of humanity at risk, The Elders are focusing on urgent issues: the climate and nature crisis, nuclear proliferation, pandemics, and the relentless scourge of conflict, with their work also informed by commitments to multilateralism, human rights, gender equality and more women in leadership positions, and intergenerational dialogue.

At this critical juncture, we are seeking an outstanding Director of Programmes (and Deputy CEO), to play a pivotal role providing leadership and strategic direction to Elders' Secretariat on programmes. The role involves ensuring advice and support to The Elders is aligned with organisational strategy, Elders' preferences, resources, and external opportunities and risks. They will act as a critical advisor to The Elders, shaping programme priorities while driving cross-organisational collaboration towards results that matter for the world. The post is also expected to hold important external relationships with governments, civil society, thought-leaders, academic institutions and the private sector to bring The Elders' priorities to life.

Reporting to the CEO, and part of the four-person Senior Management Team (SMT), the Director of Programmes plays a crucial role in the strategic development and operational excellence of The Elders' Secretariat, and will serve as Deputy CEO, stepping in when needed and leading in promoting efficient cross-team working within the Secretariat.

This is a unique opportunity for an inspiring Director of Programmes to bring significant senior-level experience in international policy, advocacy and/or programme management. Given the breadth of the Programmes team's work, broad knowledge and experience across at least some of climate, health, nuclear weapons, conflict and multilateralism will be highly desirable to lead and support the team effectively. The successful candidate will possess strong policy acumen, an ability to navigate diverse and cultural perspectives, and a proven track record of building strategic alliances across sectors at the highest levels. You will demonstrate outstanding people leadership and management skills and bring a flexible style to work in a small, dynamic and collaborative team. Above all, we are seeking a leader who is deeply aligned with the mission and values of The Elders.

Given the Elders' global outlook, we particularly welcome applicants originally from countries in the Global South. As we are not able to sponsor visas, all applicants must have the existing right to work in the UK.

To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter, detailing how you fulfil the role description and personal specification to quoting reference 7819. The deadline for applications is 9am BST Monday 12 th May 2025.

The role is based in London, United Kingdom and the successful candidate will be expected to be in the London office every week, although there is a lot of flexibility for working from home. This role may require frequent international travel, sometimes at short notice and, in exceptional circumstances, for up to two weeks. Additionally, you may be required to attend staff or Elders events in the UK from time to time, and to build and maintain external networks at diplomatic, think tank and civil society events (mostly in London, sometimes in the evening).

The starting salary is between £99,900 and £108,000 depending on fit and experience, with scope for progression and a generous benefits package.

Perrett Laver will conduct an executive search process in parallel with the public advertisement of the role. Longlisted candidates will be invited to interview with Perrett Laver in May and the Selection Panel will subsequently meet to decide upon a final shortlist for the post in early June, following which two rounds of interviews with The Elders' Secretariat will take place in mid-June, together with an informal conversation with the CEO, a staff panel, psychometric testing and a written test. A decision is expected by the last week of June. If you require any reasonable adjustments to assist you in the selection process, please advise us of these so that we can make appropriate arrangements.

The Elders is committed to creating an inclusive working environment that values diversity and equal opportunities. We welcome and encourage applicants of any ethnicity, religion, age, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation or disability. We will assess purely on your abilities and fit for a role.

To confidentially get in touch about this role, or for advice on your application please contact Isabela Betoret, Senior Research Associate for a confidential conversation. Should you require access to these documents in alternative formats, please contact Freya Coombes,

If you have comments that would support us to improve access to documentation, or our application processes more generally, please do not hesitate to contact us via .

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