Director of People

At Global Witness, we’re on a mission to shift the balance of power from the polluters profiting most from the climate emergency to the people most adversely affected.

We are an independent, global organisation of investigators and campaigners using cutting edge investigative methods. We shine a light on the financial and political systems that enable that enable corporate abuses of power that harm people and planet.

We are all determined and confident that together we can secure a better tomorrow for everyone. If you are inspired to join us as we investigate and expose abuses of power, tell the stories the world needs to hear and campaign for systemic change, we would love to hear from you.

About the role

As Director of People, you will lead the strategy that ensures Global Witness remains an inclusive, forward-thinking and trailblazing organisation — one capable of attracting, developing and retaining exceptional people across the globe.

You will guide the evolution of our culture, championing equity, wellbeing and collaboration while ensuring we are ready to adapt to the forces reshaping the modern workplace. Working closely with our Senior Leadership Team, you will embed a people-centred approach that supports high performance, strengthens organisational resilience, and upholds the values that unite our staff around our mission.

This is a pivotal moment for Global Witness, and your leadership will be essential as we equip our organisation for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

About you

We are seeking an experienced and inspiring leader who combines strategic vision with practical, hands-on delivery. You will be someone who builds trust, nurtures strong relationships and cultivates high-performing teams.

You will likely bring senior experience from an international, mission-driven or values-led organisation, along with the courage and confidence to drive transformation. You are committed to fostering a culture of learning, accountability and inclusion, and you understand what it takes to create an environment where people can thrive.

Above all, you share our mission and are energised by the opportunity to shape the culture and people strategy of an organisation working at the forefront of global climate and human rights challenges.

Working for Global Witness

Global Witness has a talented team of people worldwide with offices in London, Washington DC, and Brussels. We aim to be a diverse and inclusive place to work. We value new perspectives, original ideas, and different ways of working. We believe that diverse views and experiences improve the way we do our work. We do our best to make our jobs accessible to all regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, or identity.

We offer an excellent benefits package including a competitive salary and 25 days annual leave (excl. Bank Holidays). We also offer healthcare insurance, wellbeing days and policies to support you during key life events.

We are currently in the first year of a shorter working week pilot where everyone works 30 hours Monday to Thursday, with Friday off with no impact on full time salary. We operate a hybrid working model which requires at least 2 days in the office.

To download a full copy of the candidate brief and learn more about the role, please click the ‘Apply’ button, where you will be redirected to the website of our recruitment partner, Tall Roots. If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please email Mark Crowley at Tall Roots.