Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Secretary General

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award was founded by the late Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh, in 1956, creating a programme that would support young people on the journey of self-development as they find their purpose, passion and place in the world. For nearly seventy years, The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award has been helping young people transform their lives and their communities. Today, HRH Prince Edward, The Duke of Edinburgh KG KT GCVO is both Chair of the Board of Trustees and Patron of the Award, having been involved in the Award for over twenty years, and is actively involved in the life of the charity, supporting the growth and strengthening of the Award.

There are consistently over a million young people in more than 120 countries and territories taking on the Award’s challenge to believe in the power of their potential, make a difference in their community and take control of their future. The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is dedicated to ensuring even more young people around the world have the opportunity to participate - to do so we need a significant step change in the capacity of many of our local operators to deliver the Award.

Position Overview

This is a significant time to join the Award team during an exciting growth phase. We are seeking an experienced senior leader to join as our new Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Secretary General, working with Secretary General Martin Houghton-Brown and the talented international team. The post-holder will be at the heart of developing and leading a ten-year journey toward significant growth in participation, as part of a small Senior Leadership Team. Crucially, they will lead on the diplomatically sensitive work of ensuring the standards and the reputation of the Award is protected and promoted around the world.

Key Responsibilities

1. Lead the strategic development and implementation of the Award’s growth initiatives.
2. Ensure the standards and reputation of the Award are upheld globally.
3. Engage with a broad range of stakeholders to build credibility and influence.
4. Support the Secretary General in the overall management of the organization.

Qualifications

This is an influential role, core to the impact of the Award. An understanding of international relations, experience of governmental level influencing and an unflinching commitment to integrity will be essential for the successful candidate. A genuine belief in the potential of young people, and a commitment to the principles that underlie the Award is essential, although your experience might be from any setting or sector. You will have the presence, diplomacy, empathy and cultural awareness to influence and engage at all levels, building credibility quickly across a range of stakeholders.

If you believe you have the skills and qualities we are seeking, we would be very pleased to hear from you.

To find out more and apply for the role please visit: https://starfishsearch.com/jobs/coo-dep-sec-gen/

Closing date: Monday 5^th May 2025