Governance officer jobs

The British Academy – the UK’s national body for the humanities and social sciences - is seeking a Governance Officer to join our CEO’s Office, providing key support in the delivery of our EDI Strategy and governance functions.

The role

This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the centre of The British Academy to support our equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and governance activity. This varied role will support the delivery of the Academy’s EDI Strategy and action plans, helping drive meaningful initiatives across the organisation while also contributing to the smooth running of the Academy’s governance structures.

You will work closely with colleagues across the Academy, Fellows, senior stakeholders and external partners, playing an important role in supporting projects, events, communications and committee activity. From helping shape EDI initiatives and building relationships across networks to coordinating governance processes and supporting high-level meetings, this role offers the opportunity to support work that has an impact across the Academy and contribute to EDI best practice in the research sector.

This role would suit someone who is highly organised, proactive and collaborative, with excellent communication skills. You may already have experience in EDI work, governance, higher education or membership organisations. A commitment to EDI is essential and an understanding of the broader context and regulatory landscape surrounding EDI would be valuable. You will be comfortable using Microsoft Office 365 and working collaboratively across teams, bringing a positive, and respectful approach to your work.

Whether you’re looking to build your experience in governance or EDI and want a role where you can make a real contribution across the Academy, we’d love to hear from you.

About the Academy

The British Academy is the UK’s national body for the humanities and social sciences, established by Royal Charter in 1902. We mobilise these disciplines to understand the world and shape a brighter future. Today’s complex challenges can only be resolved by deepening our insight into people, culture, and societies. With a Fellowship of around 1,700 leading national and international academics, the Academy invests in researchers and projects across the UK and overseas; engages the public with fresh thinking and debates; and brings together scholars, government, business, and civil society to influence policy.

The Academy currently has five directorates: Communications & Marketing; Development; Policy; Research; and Resources, plus a small Governance & Fellowship Team.

Working at the Academy

Our senior management team have worked with staff to foster a culture of collaboration, respect, and empathy, in which all contributions are recognised as we work towards our common goals. Our people strategy and working practices focus on building strengths and sharing insights, with learning & development, wellbeing, and equality, diversity & inclusion at the centre of how we operate as an organisation. Investing in our staff and encouraging a healthy work/life balance is central to our success, as we move forward and continue to grow.

Terms and conditions

The British Academy is based at 10-11, Carlton House Terrace, London SW1, a Grade 1 listed building. We offer a competitive benefits package including a 35-hour working week, with hours and location worked flexibly under our hybrid-working policy; 34 days’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays; a subsidised canteen and an excellent occupational pension.

How to apply

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, in line with our commitment to create a diverse and inclusive working environment, promote equal opportunity, and address under-representation. We will make reasonable adjustments to support disabled job applicants and offer an interview to those meeting the minimum selection criteria.

To apply, and to see the full job description and our workplace values, please follow the apply link to visit our recruitment platform. 

Closing date: Midday on 17 June 2026.

TPP Recruitment is supporting a respected professional body to recruit a Governance Officer.
 
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a collaborative Corporate Services team, where you will play a central role in supporting governance activity, organisational projects, and key stakeholder engagement. The Governance Officer role offers the chance to take ownership of varied and meaningful work that contributes to high standards of governance and organisational effectiveness.
 
 
Details
 

• Salary: £34,000-36,000 per annum, depending on experience
• Location: Central London
• Working Pattern: Full time, 35 hours per week
• Working arrangements: Hybrid
• Contract: Permanent
• Start date: From 13th July 2026 (or shortly thereafter – shorter notice periods are strongly preferred).

 
 
About the Organisation

This professional membership body operates as a registered charity with a clear mission to improve standards and outcomes across its sector for the benefit of society.
 
The organisation is values-driven, with a strong focus on inclusion, collaboration and continuous improvement. Employees are supported to thrive in a positive and respectful environment, where diversity is embraced and personal wellbeing is prioritised.
 
 
About the Role

As Governance Officer, you will support a wide range of governance activities, working closely with senior stakeholders including trustees, committees, and internal teams.
 
You will contribute to the smooth running of key governance processes, while also playing an active role in supporting strategic projects and organisational initiatives.
 
This role is ideal if you enjoy variety, responsibility, and working in a collaborative environment where your organisational skills and attention to detail will be highly valued.
 
 
Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate governance meetings, including preparing papers, managing invitations, and taking accurate minutes
• Support major governance activities such as board meetings, elections, annual general meetings, and trustee recruitment
• Maintain governance records, track attendance and oversee administrative processes
• Support governance-focused projects and internal audits
• Manage administration of the organisational project portfolio, including reporting and progress tracking
• Provide wider support to the Corporate Services team, including event coordination

 
 
Skills / Experience Required

• Experience of providing Governance administration support
• Background providing governance secretarial support for Boards and Trustees
• Familiar with elections process in a membership body
• Experience of minute taking and coordinating meetings
• Confident communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels
• High attention to detail and ability to handle confidential information
• Proactive and solutions-focused approach
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office

 
 
To Apply

• To apply for this Governance Officer role, please submit your CV along with a short covering statement demonstrating:
  • Your experience of governance administration
  • Your ability to multitask and manage stakeholder expectations

 
 
Interview Process

• First stage: Thursday 18 June (via Teams)
• Second stage: Tuesday 23 June (in person, London)

 
 
Deadline for Applications

• 9am, Thursday 11th June 2026
  • Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so early application is encouraged.

 

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.