Chair of Trustees

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The Royal Economic Society is seeking a distinguished economist and experienced organisational leader to become the next Chair of its Trustee Board.

The successful candidate will begin a structured induction and shadowing period from January 2027, before formally taking up the role in June 2027. The appointment is for an initial three-year term, with the possibility of one further three-year term.

Background

The Royal Economic Society is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious economic associations. Founded in 1890, it brings together an international community of academics, students and professionals to promote high-quality research, foster inclusive debate and support the next generation of economists.

The Society’s work spans publishing, events and training, support for economists at different stages of their careers, diversity and inclusion, education and advocacy for economics.

The incoming Chair will join the RES as it enters the final phase of its 2024–2028 Strategy and will help lead the development of the strategy that follows.

The role

The Chair provides leadership to the Trustee Board, which is responsible for the overall governance, strategic direction and policies of the Society.

Working closely with the Chief Executive, the Chair supports and challenges the executive in delivering the Society’s charitable objectives, while maintaining a clear distinction between governance and operational management. The Chair also plays an important role in promoting effective decision-making and a positive and inclusive Board culture.

The role involves chairing three Trustee Board meetings each year, attending two meetings of Council and working with the Board and Chief Executive on the Society’s strategy, governance, financial sustainability and organisational performance.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for candidates with a substantial background in economics, developed through senior leadership, research, teaching, public policy or professional practice, together with a strong understanding of the economics community in the UK and internationally.

Candidates should have a significant track record of leadership within a complex organisation and experience of operating effectively at Board level. Experience of chairing meetings, contributing to organisational strategy, working constructively with a Chief Executive and providing oversight of finance, governance and risk will also be important.

Candidates must be eligible to serve as a charity trustee under UK charity law.

The full role description, person specification, terms and further information about the Society are available in the Chair of Trustees candidate pack.

Application Process

Applicants should submit:

• a current CV; and
• a covering letter explaining their interest in the role and addressing the essential experience set out in the person specification.

Applications should be sent to recruitment@res.org.uk by 12:00 UK time on Monday 2 November 2026.

The role is unpaid and requires a commitment of approximately two days per month. Reasonable expenses incurred in carrying out the duties of the role will be reimbursed.

Informal discussions can be arranged with the current Chair and/or Chief Executive on request.

The RES is committed to improving diversity and inclusion in economics and in its own governance. We welcome applications from candidates with different backgrounds, identities, career paths and perspectives who meet the requirements of the role.