Head of Climate and Growth Initiative

London School of Economics and Political Science; London; On-site; GBP 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent university in London seeks a Head of the Climate and Growth Initiative to lead efforts in sustainable development. The role focuses on guiding research, influencing policy, and fostering partnerships. Ideal candidates will have experience in economic research, leadership, and engagement with global policymakers. Competitive salary and potential visa sponsorship offered.

Benefits

Occupational pension scheme

Generous annual leave

Training and development opportunities

Potential visa sponsorship

Qualifications

• Deep understanding of economic research and climate policy.
• Proven track record with policymakers on climate issues.
• Experience leading teams and managing grants.

Responsibilities

• Set strategic vision for Climate and Growth Initiative.
• Drive research and translate it into policy influence.
• Build partnerships and mobilise resources across regions.

Skills

Economic research understanding

Policy engagement

Team leadership

Budget management

Initiative taking

Education

MA/MSc/MPA/MPP in relevant discipline

Job description

LSE is committed to building a diverse, equitable and truly inclusive university

The International Growth Centre (IGC)

Head of Climate and Growth Initiative

Salary from £53,949 to £62,160 per annum with potential to progress to £69,073
inclusive of London allowance

Full time open-ended contract subject to funding, with minimum commitment of 24 months

The International Growth Centre (IGC) works with policymakers in developing countries to promote inclusive and sustainable growth through pathbreaking research. We are a global research centre with a network of world-leading researchers, country teams across Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East, and a set of global policy initiatives. Based at London School of Economics (LSE) and in partnership with the University of Oxford, we are majority funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) with support from other global funders. We focus on four themes: state effectiveness; firms, trade, and productivity; cities; and energy and environment.

In partnership with LSE’s new Global School of Sustainability, we have launched the flagship Climate and Growth Initiative (CGI) – an ambitious, high-profile effort to shape how developing countries achieve sustainable growth, from climate adaptation to green transitions to conserving natural capital.

We are seeking an exceptional leader to direct this initiative. The Head of CGI will set its strategic vision, drive cutting-edge research, and translate it into influence at the highest levels of government and global forums. This is a unique opportunity to combine intellectual leadership with entrepreneurial drive – building partnerships, mobilising resources, and delivering measurable policy impact across multiple regions.

Essential skills and experience:

· Deep understanding of economic research and policy issues relating to sustainable growth, notably climate change, energy, and environment.

· Proven track record of working with policymakers on climate, energy, or environment issues.

· MA/MSc/MPA/MPP degree in economics, public policy/administration, development economics, or a related discipline by post start date.

· Experience leading and growing teams, including managing budgets and grants.

· Ability to translate complex research into clear, compelling policy recommendations.

· Willingness to travel regularly to and engage with country teams and stakeholders.

· Demonstrated ability to take initiative

The position is based at the IGC Head Office at LSE. We offer an occupational pension scheme, generous annual leave and excellent training and development opportunities. For this post, we may be able to offer visa sponsorship to the successful candidate.

A webinar with IGC leadership will be held on Friday, August 29 th , 15:00 hours (UK), to describe the vision, goals, and criteria of this role. To register, please sign up using the below link.

To apply for this post, please go to https://jobs.lse.ac.uk . If you have any technical queries with applying on the online system, please use the “contact us” links at the bottom of the LSE Jobs page. Should you have any queries about the role, please email [e-mail] .

The closing date for receipt of applications is: 23:59 hours (GMT) on Sunday, 14th September, 2025. Regrettably, we are unable to accept any late applications.