Director – European Policy Think Tank

About the role

The Centre for European Reform (CER) seeks a visionary Director to provide intellectual leadership across European politics, economics, security and the EU‑UK relationship. The role combines strategic oversight of research programmes with fundraising and organisational management.

Key responsibilities

• Shape and steer CER’s research agenda, ensuring coverage of core EU topics and identifying gaps for commissioned work.
• Maintain and expand relationships with existing donors while cultivating new funding sources to support an annual budget of around £1.4 million.
• Provide light‑touch guidance to a pan‑European team of researchers based in London, Brussels and Berlin.
• Oversee publications, website, social media, events, and the centre’s financial and HR functions.
• Uphold CER’s independent, pro‑European ethos while encouraging non‑hierarchical, evidence‑based analysis.

Required profile

• Demonstrated expertise in at least one of European politics, economics or security, with a solid understanding of the other areas.
• Proven experience in fundraising and donor relationship management.
• Strong people‑management skills, capable of leading senior researchers and administrative staff.
• Alignment with CER’s values of openness, influence and a constructive approach to EU integration.

Required skills

What we offer

• A senior leadership position within a respected, independent think‑tank.
• Opportunity to shape European policy discourse across the UK and EU.
• Collaborative, non‑hierarchical work culture with a diverse, international team.