Director

We exist to advance equitable and sustainable societies, where people everywhere can live free from poverty, inequality, and injustice

The Institute of Development Studies (IDS) is a leading global institution for research, learning, and teaching on development. For nearly 60 years, we have been shaping development thinking and practice, challenging orthodoxies, and advancing ideas that drive progressive change. Together with the University of Sussex, we are proud to be ranked first in the world for Development Studies in the QS World University Rankings, a position we have held for nine consecutive years. Our work is dedicated to generating and sharing knowledge that shapes action, influences policy, and builds leadership for more equitable and sustainable development globally. Each year, IDS collaborates with governments, philanthropic foundations, multilateral organisations, NGOs, academics, and civil society to address urgent and complex challenges, from climate justice and health security to inequality, governance, and the impact of emerging technologies.

The Board of Trustees is now seeking a new Director to lead IDS into its next strategic period. Reporting to the Board, the Director will provide intellectual inspiration and institutional leadership, strengthen IDS’s position as a critical and independent space for development thinking, and raise the profile of the Institute on the international stage. They will be responsible for shaping and delivering strategy, building and diversifying the funding base, fostering equitable partnerships, and enabling an inclusive culture in which our diverse community of staff and students can excel.

IDS welcomes applications from leaders with a wide range of relevant backgrounds, particularly from the global South. Candidates will bring strong alignment with IDS’s mission and values, and the academic and intellectual standing to command respect and inspire across disciplines and geographies. They will have a proven record of leadership in complex, multidimensional organisations, experience of working in the global South, and a track record of building equitable partnerships across the world. Essential qualities include financial and operational acumen, excellent people leadership skills, and the ability to navigate shifting UK and global contexts. An understanding of teaching and pedagogy, and insight into the role of emerging technologies in shaping development, will also be highly valued.

We welcome applications from individuals, and are open to flexible arrangements, including job shares for up to two people.

To apply, please upload a CV (maximum five pages) and a covering letter (maximum two pages) detailing how you meet the role description and person specification.

The closing date for applications is 11:59pm BST on Sunday 5th October 2025.

The role will be based in Sussex, United Kingdom, and the salary is competitive with the market rate and negotiable depending on experience and skills.

The post is hybrid, with the expectation that the successful candidate will spend a reasonable amount of time in person at IDS.

IDS is committed to eliminating discrimination. We welcome applications from all sections of the community, irrespective of background, belief or identity and particularly encourage applications from groups which are underrepresented at IDS.

For any advice on submitting your application or for an initial conversation in confidence, please contact Eljoh Balajadia  eljoh.balajadia@perrettlaver.com

Should you require access to these documents in alternative formats, please contact Freya Coombes freya.coombes@perrettlaver.com

Advert information