Chief Executive Officer

The Foundation for Science and Technology; City Of London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent UK charity is seeking a visionary leader as Chief Executive. This role involves overseeing key policy events, leading talent programmes, and shaping the UK’s science and technology future. The ideal candidate will have a professional background in relevant fields, strong communication skills, and experience in leadership and event delivery. The position offers a unique opportunity to influence national policy and support emerging leaders.

Qualifications

• Visionary leader with ability to guide organizations.
• Intellectually robust with understanding of policy shaping.
• Experience in leadership roles is essential.

Responsibilities

• Oversee flagship policy events for the Foundation.
• Lead the Foundation Future Leaders programme.
• Develop initiatives to strengthen UK's science and technology ecosystem.

Skills

Skilled communicator

Event delivery

Team leadership

Financial management

Education

Professional background in science, engineering, technology or medicine

Job description

The Foundation for Science and Technology is a respected UK charity that provides a neutral platform for debate on science, research, technology, and innovation policy. Since 1977, it has convened leaders from Parliament, government, industry, academia, and the third sector to explore how science and technology shape public policy and society.

As our current Chief Executive prepares to step down after seven successful years, we are seeking a visionary leader to guide the Foundation into its 50th anniversary and beyond. You will oversee our flagship policy events, lead the Foundation Future Leaders programme, and develop new initiatives that strengthen the UK’s science and technology ecosystem.

We are looking for someone with a professional background in science, engineering, technology or medicine – whether from industry, academia, government or the charitable sector. You’ll be a skilled communicator and natural convenor, intellectually robust with a deep understanding of how policy is shaped across sectors. Experience in event delivery, team leadership and financial management is essential.

This is a unique opportunity to influence national policy, support emerging leaders, and shape the future of science and technology in the UK.

Please visit our website for more information and to apply.

Closing date for applications – Sunday 2nd November 2025.