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 serve as Deputy Director-General, a critical leadership role that will work closely with the Director-General to drive the Foundation’s impact. Acting as Chief Operating Officer, you will oversee the Foundation’s day-to-day operations, ensuring programmes are strategically aligned, governance is robust, and resources are effectively managed. 

Your leadership will be pivotal in ensuring the smooth operation and delivery of the Foundation’s work, overseeing planning, implementation, and resource allocation. You will also support governance processes and play a central role in organisational oversight, ensuring that systems, policies, and operational frameworks enable the Foundation to achieve its strategic goals. At times, you will act on behalf of the Director-General when required.   

We are searching for a candidate with strong strategic leadership experience, a deep understanding of international development and governance, and a proven ability to drive organisational effectiveness in a complex, intergovernmental environment. You will bring expertise in programme management, financial oversight, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring the Foundation delivers on its ambitious goals. 

With diplomatic skill, emotional intelligence, and a collaborative leadership approach, you will foster a culture of excellence, transparency, and inclusion across the organisation. Above all, your work will reflect a deep commitment to the values of the Commonwealth Charter and the Foundation’s mission to strengthen civil society’s role in shaping a more equitable, just, and inclusive Commonwealth. 

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. The deadline for applications is 9am GMT Monday 17th March.  

The role is based in London. The appointment is for an initial term of three years, renewable for up to three years dependent on Leadership transition needs. The Foundation offers a competitive salary and above-market benefits including, for a Deputy 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. There is an expectation from the Board that senior members of the Directorates including the Deputy Director-General, maintain high levels of in-person engagement. 

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 April and the Appointments Committee will subsequently meet to decide upon a final shortlist for the post in early May. We are expecting that online interviews will be conducted mid-May and, for the final shortlist, in-person interviews in June. 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 george.hourmouzios@perrettlaver.com for a confidential conversation.  

Should you require access to these documents in alternative formats, please contact Esther Elbro esther.elbro@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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