Governance Officer

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.