Executive Director, IISS-Europe

Facts. Analysis. Influence.

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is a defence and security think tank that has a deep understanding of regional geopolitics and geo-economics in a global context. Its international researchers provide best-in-class independent and impartial analysis and provide insights on strategic challenges and priorities to governments and the private sector. It is expert at bringing together national leaders and senior policymakers in foreign policy, defence and security; promoting dialogue; and facilitating effective and influential bilateral and multilateral consultations.

Due to growth in the IISS-Europe office and the success and expansion of our Defence Technology and Future Conflict programme, the current Executive Director will be relocating to the London office. The Institute is therefore seeking to appoint an energetic, senior figure as its Executive Director to lead IISS–Europe. The post will be available from 1st July 2026. As Executive Director, the successful candidate will be responsible for leading and developing the IISS–Europe office and will be a member of the IISS Directing Staff.

Candidates for the post should have substantial working experience relevant to European security affairs, whether in the expert community, government, the media or business. They should ideally have experience of institutional leadership and success in fundraising, diplomatic skills, as well as a strong record of policy-relevant publication. They should be able confidently to conduct discussions with the highest levels of government and business, while at the same time leading and working closely with the diverse, international team of research and operational staff at IISS.

Candidates must be fully competent in spoken and written English and German. The successful candidate should hold a postgraduate degree and, ideally, already have experience of living and working in Germany or elsewhere in Europe.

This appointment will be for a fixed term of four years and may be considered for renewal at the end of the contract. The salary offered will be competitive and accompanied by a full benefits package.

Applications should include a cover letter stating the skills the candidate would bring to the IISS, a CV and list of references, and should be submitted by

Due to the expected volume of applications, only those applicants selected for interview will receive a reply following the acknowledgement email.