Chief Executive Officer

Science matters more than ever. At a moment of real opportunity, this is a chance to lead an organisation that sits at the heart of the scientific community.

Location: Hybrid - home and central London office.

Closing date: 9 a.m. Monday 11th May 2026

Who we are

The Science Council is a Royal Charter body and registered charity, connecting over 30 professional bodies and learned societies across science. Together, this community represents scientists, technicians and educators working across disciplines and sectors.

We connect the science professions and provide professional recognition that supports individuals, strengthens employers and benefits society. Through our registers, our partnerships and our convening role, we help raise standards, encourage innovation and support a workforce that is increasingly vital to public life.

About the role

With a new strategy in its early stages, growing policy engagement and a clear ambition to strengthen long term sustainability, this is a pivotal moment for the Science Council, as we seek our next Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Working closely with the Chair and Board, you will lead the organisation to deliver its strategy with clarity and momentum. You will bring together and work with more than 30 diverse member organisations, each with different sizes, structures and scientific focuses, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs understood. You will also help to align priorities and deepen collaboration across the wider science ecosystem, building strong relationships with partners and stakeholders.

The role balances strategic leadership with a hands-on approach. You will lead a skilled and committed team, ensuring the organisation is well run, financially sustainable and able to respond to opportunities as they emerge. At the same time, you will be an external voice for the Science Council, building relationships with government, employers and opinion formers, and strengthening the organisation’s visibility and influence.

Central to the role is a focus on growth and relevance. This includes expanding professional registration, developing new partnerships and identifying opportunities to diversify income while staying true to the organisation’s purpose.

What we are looking for

We are looking for a leader who is motivated by public benefit and the role science plays in society. You may come from within the science community, a professional or membership body, or a related sector. What matters most is your ability to lead in a complex, multi stakeholder environment and to bring people together around a shared purpose.

You will bring experience of leading an organisation or significant function through a period of growth or change and have the credibility to engage with senior stakeholders across policy, industry and the professions. We need someone with a strong understanding of governance and the ability to work closely with a Board and the ability to balance strategic thinking with delivery, in a relatively small and agile organisation.

A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, and to creating environments where people can contribute and belong is crucial and we are particularly interested in leaders who listen carefully, build trust and are comfortable working across boundaries. Above all, you will be thoughtful and collaborative, with the confidence to make decisions and guide the organisation through its next phase.

Closing date: 9 a.m. Monday 11th May 2026.

For further information and details of how to apply, please click the link to be directed to the Peridot Partners page.