Championing the people of the Commonwealth

The Commonwealth Foundation is unique among intergovernmental organisations, explicitly mandated to promote the interests of civil society across its Member States. Rooted in the Commonwealth’s values and ideals, we are driven by a commitment to champion people’s engagement in democracy and governance. We embody the principle that the Commonwealth is an organisation of its people, not merely its governments, representing the rights and aspirations of 2.7 billion citizens across 56 remarkably diverse nations.

We are now seeking an outstanding individual to succeed Dr Anne T. Gallagher AO, who completes her term in June 2025 after a six-year tenure that has seen the Foundation’s  profile, reputation and impact grow significantly. As the new Director-General, you will become the chief advocate for the people of the Commonwealth, engaging with our 50+ Member States and other Commonwealth entities. You will drive the Foundation’s strategic vision, working closely with our Board of Governors to uphold sound governance and steer the Foundation towards impactful change.

Your leadership will be at the heart of the Foundation’s mission, inspiring our dynamic team and shaping the next strategic plan that aligns with our commitment to democratic governance and community empowerment. You will be a trusted, visible, proactive representative of the Foundation, building strategic relationships with Member States and civil societies to further our cause and enhance support for our work.

We are searching for a candidate who brings international development experience, with a proven history of strategic leadership and a firm grasp of the social, economic, and political landscapes within which the Commonwealth operates. You will be a natural communicator, equipped to share your deep knowledge of international politics, trends and development with a range of stakeholders.

Strong interpersonal and diplomatic skills are a must, allowing you to engage easily with senior government officials and civil society leaders alike. Above all, you will embody person-centred, emotionally intelligent leadership—resilient, inclusive, and transparent. Your dedication to the ideals of the Commonwealth Charter and the mission of the Commonwealth Foundation will drive our continued success as we champion the rights and voices of Commonwealth citizens everywhere.

To apply, please submit a concise CV and covering letter of no more than two pages, detailing how you fulfil the role description and personal specification quoting reference 7562. The deadline for applications is 9am GMT Monday 11th November. 

The role is based in London. The appointment is for an initial term of three years, renewable for a further three years. The Foundation offers a competitive salary and above-market benefits including, for a Director-General who is recruited from outside the UK, generous relocation, housing and other allowances.  

We are based in Marlborough House, Pall Mall, central London. We are currently operating a flexible working policy which requires all staff to work from the office at least five days per fortnight including every Wednesday, and applicants must be able to affirm their capacity and willingness to work within this policy.

The Commonwealth Foundation is dedicated to ensuring that the diverse voices of the Commonwealth are fully represented in our workforce, driving innovation, creativity, and meaningful impact in all that we do. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to join us in our mission to create a more equitable and inclusive world.

Perrett Laver will conduct an executive search process in parallel with the public advertisement of the role. Longlisted candidates will be invited to interview with Perrett Laver in early-December and the Appointments Committee will subsequently meet to decide upon a final shortlist for the post in mid-December. We are expecting that online interviews will be conducted in January 2025 and, for the final shortlist, in-person interviews shortly thereafter. If you require any reasonable adjustments to assist you in the selection process, please advise us of these so that we can make appropriate arrangements.

The search will be led by Arabella Chichester, Global Senior Partner and Kundai Mtasa, Consultant. To confidentially get in touch about this role, or for advice on your application please contact, George Hourmouzios, Principal Research Associate at george.hourmouzios@perrettlaver.com .

Should you require access to these documents in alternative formats, please contact Mandy Wedgwood mandy.wedgwood@perrettlaver.com  

If you have comments that would support us to improve access to documentation, or our application processes more generally, please do not hesitate to contact us via accessibility@perrettlaver.com 

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