Director (Maternity Cover)

About Social Change Lab

Social Change Lab is a nonprofit conducting and disseminating social movement research to help solve the world’s most pressing problems. Historically, social movements conducting disruptive campaigns seem to have been crucial in driving significant political, social and economic change. Despite this, there has been little research systematically analysing the effectiveness of social movements and the strategies or tactics that most influence the success of these campaigns. Our research addresses this neglected knowledge gap and provides actionable advice to advocates and philanthropists working on a variety of important issues, with a focus on animal advocacy and climate change. We support activist groups in choosing effective campaigning strategies and tactics (e.g. via delivering training and workshops) as well as supporting funders with their philanthropic giving. Our work has been covered in respected outlets such as The Guardian, Stanford Social Innovation Review, Deutsche Welle, the New York Times, and more.

About the role

As the Director of Social Change Lab, you would have a high level of responsibility and high impact. You would lead our small team in delivering cutting-edge research on the outcomes and strategies of social movements and ensuring widespread communication of this work to key stakeholders. You would play a significant role in shaping our strategy and the programmes we want to deliver, such as research, capacity building, training or philanthropic advising. 

The responsibilities of this role

• Lead the organisation, and take ultimate responsibility for the outcomes and impact in pursuit of our mission.

• Manage the day-to-day work of the organisation, including overseeing and coordinating various functions (e.g. research, communications, training and workshops, human resources, fundraising).

• Lead Social Change Lab’s team, including line-managing and mentoring direct reports, developing talent, and taking ultimate responsibility for the performance, support and culture of the team.

• Provide strategic leadership, including working with the team on strategic planning, prioritisation and evaluation of work, generating and deciding on new ideas and opportunities, and ensuring all staff are engaged in tasks that are aligned with the organisation’s goals.

• Take ultimate responsibility for the financial health of the organisation by

  • Fundraising, through applying for grants and liaising with major donors

  • Devising and managing the delivery of budgets and financial plans

  • Overseeing spending and making individual budgetary decisions when required

  • Ensuring timely delivery of all required financial reports  

• Contributing to our various research projects, based on your skills and interest.

About you

This role requires a diverse skill set, which would benefit from those who have some experience with social science research, leading teams or organisations (e.g. managing a team, fundraising, hiring, etc.) as well as familiarity with grassroots movements. However, we understand that this may not be easy to find and we encourage people to apply even if they do not meet all the criteria. Please see the attached job pack for the person specification.

What we offer

• A job with the potential for huge impact – potentially informing philanthropists and advocates on the best strategies to solve the world’s most pressing problems.

• The ability to shape the direction and success of the organisation.

• Experience leading an early-stage nonprofit start-up.

• Flexible working schedule.

• 28 days of paid leave, excluding public holidays.

• High level of intellectual challenge.