Director of Policy & Governance

Institute of Directors; London; Hybrid; GBP 120,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

The Institute of Directors is seeking a Director of Policy and Governance to shape policy agendas and represent members in governance debates. This strategic leadership role requires proven experience in governance and the ability to influence public policy, making it pivotal for modern business leadership.

Qualifications

• Senior-level experience in policy, governance, regulation, or public affairs.
• Outstanding communicator with a strong grasp of UK corporate governance.
• Proven ability to influence public policy through research and strategic engagement.

Responsibilities

• Set strategic direction for the policy and governance agenda.
• Act as a national and international spokesperson.
• Lead a multidisciplinary team fostering collaboration.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Relationship-building

Public policy influence

Strategic thinking

Job description

Salary: £120,000 - £140,000 + benefits

Location: 116 Pall Mall, London / Hybrid

About the Institute of Directors (IoD):

The Institute of Directors is the UK’s leading membership organisation for company directors and business leaders. We champion good governance, advocate on behalf of the director community, and provide development opportunities that support board effectiveness and long-term success.

About the Director of Policy and Governance role:

We are now seeking a collaborative, intellectually grounded, and strategic leader to join our Executive Team as Director of Policy and Governance. This is a pivotal role, charged with shaping the IoD’s policy agenda, advancing our voice and the voice of our members in UK and global governance debates, and ensuring our influence reflects the evolving needs of modern business leaders and Directors.

As the Director of Policy and Governance you’ll be responsible for:

• Policy leadership: Setting the strategic direction for our policy and governance agenda, rooted in evidence, member priorities, and real-world business impact.
• High-profile advocacy: Acting as a national and international spokesperson, engaging government ministers, regulators, media and industry forums.
• Governance thought leadership: Shaping public and member understanding of boardroom issues, ESG responsibilities, and regulatory change.
• Team empowerment: Leading a multidisciplinary team while fostering a collaborative and agile culture across the organisation.

What we’re looking for:

• A credible leader with senior-level experience in policy, governance, regulation, or public affairs.
• Outstanding communicator and relationship-builder with a strong grasp of UK corporate governance and the broader policy landscape.
• Proven ability to influence public policy through authoritative research, thought leadership, and strategic engagement.
• Strategic, resilient, and values-led, someone who can drive change, build consensus, and thrive in high-profile environments.
• Motivating and supportive leader of a team who encourages curiosity, rigour, initiative and collaboration while investing in the growth and development of those around you.

Why join the IoD?

This is a rare opportunity to shape the governance conversation at the heart of the UK’s business community, championing pragmatic policy solutions in service of better boardrooms and a stronger economy.

How to Apply

For more information on the opportunity of Director of Policy & Governance for the IoD, including access to the full candidate brief, please visit www.berwickpartners.co.uk/94048

Alternatively, click on the “Apply for this Role” button. You will be redirected to the website of our selected search partner, Berwick Partners.

For an informal conversation about the role please contact Tom Ewen and/or Lisa Henry from our selected search partner, Berwick Partners. You can contact them on [e-mail] or [e-mail]

To apply please submit an up-to-date copy of your CV along with a covering statement which highlights your motivations towards this opportunity and capabilities in a position of this kind.

The close date for your application is Sunday 3^rd August 2025

If you have difficulties applyingonline, please contact the Berwick Partners recruitment team on [e-mail]