Executive Opportunities

Department for Science, Innovation & Technology
Director General, Emerging Technology and Artificial Intelligence

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2602-042L

The Department for Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT) exists to seize the opportunities of science and technology, and to do so in a way that strengthens prosperity and protects the public. Against the backdrop of rapid convergence of AI with frontier and emerging technologies, UK Government needs to continue to be a confident partner: backing growth and international competitiveness, while making sure the policy and regulatory foundations keep pace and command public trust.

DSIT are therefore seeking an exceptional leader to serve as Director General for Emerging Technologies and AI. This role brings together responsibility for AI, frontier and emerging technologies (including areas such as quantum, advanced engineering, robotics and related innovations) in a portfolio that spans growth, regulation, security, international engagement and responsible adoption. This is a highly visible, pivotal role at the centre of Government, reflecting both the challenges and opportunities of a fast-moving technological landscape transforming economies, societies and geopolitics.

The successful candidate will lead strategy to position the UK as a global leader in AI and frontier technologies. Deep technical expertise is not required, but demonstrable ambition and continued intellectual curiosity are prerequisite. The postholder will shape policy to enable growth of innovative companies, navigate complex international dynamics, including global governance, standards and strategic partnerships, and address the societal, economic and national security implications of emerging technologies to support confident and responsible adoption. They will operate across departmental boundaries with Ministers, senior officials, regulators, industry leaders and global institutions, and combine deep policy credibility with strategic judgement, intellectual authority and the ability to lead high-performing, highly-specialist, multidisciplinary teams.

DSIT has retained Russell Reynolds Associates to advise on this appointment. For further information about the position and how to apply, please review the position specification below.

The closing date for applications is 23:55 on Sunday 22^nd March 2026.

Position Specification

SDG Impact Finance Initiative (SIFI)
CEO SIFI

Geneva
2601-007SZ

Based in Switzerland, the SDG Impact Finance Initiative (SIFI) aims to advance progress in developing countries towards the achievement of the SDGs by mobilising additional capital through innovative finance solutions and collaboration between public and private partners.

Reporting to the Executive Board, the CEO provides strategic, operational, and external leadership to drive SIFI’s strategic ambition to contribute to unlocking CHF 1 billion in capital for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. They are responsible for shaping the strategic direction, overseeing the implementation of SIFI’s programmes, driving fundraising, cultivating strong relationships with SIFI’s Board, its funders and partners, and leading a small, high-performing team. The CEO serves as the primary representative of the organisation, fostering partnerships with donors, public and private stakeholders.

The ideal candidate brings 10-15+ years of progressive leadership experience at the intersection of sustainability, development, and finance, with particular expertise in impact investing and emerging or developing economies. They have a strong track record of leading teams or organizations – ideally in entrepreneurial or start-up environments – and engaging effectively with public-sector donors, philanthropic institutions, and multilateral partners. Demonstrated success in institutional fundraising, donor relations, grant management, and board engagement is essential, alongside experience in financial management and program oversight.

The candidate is a strategic thinker who can translate vision into execution, build trusted relationships with high-level stakeholders, and communicate persuasively in writing, public forums, and the media. They possess deep knowledge of impact investing and blended finance instruments and have a proven ability to mobilize resources from both public and private sources. A higher education qualification in a relevant field is required, as are strong industry networks and fluency in English (German or French desirable). This position is based in Switzerland and involves regular domestic and international travel (approximately 20%, arranged as flexibly as possible). The majority of the team is based in Geneva, where the successful candidate is expected to spend around 50% of their time. Candidates must hold, or be eligible to obtain, the appropriate authorisation to live and work in Switzerland.

More information about this position can be found in the job specification available below.

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter to responses@russellreynolds.com. Your submission should include the role title “CEO SIFI” and reference number 2601-007SZ in the subject line of your email.

Position Specification

Ministry of Defence
Director General, Defence Medical Services

London
2601-029L

A nationally critical leadership role at the intersection of Defence, healthcare and government.

The Defence Medical Services (DMS) is the statutory healthcare provider to the UK Armed Forces, delivering occupationally focused medical care across the UK, overseas strategic bases and on deployed operations. Its mission is clear: to save lives, maintain operational readiness, and support service personnel from point of wounding through to recovery and return to duty.

Following the Strategic Defence Review 2025, DMS is entering a decisive period of reform. We are now seeking an exceptional leader to serve as Director General, Defence Medical Services (DG DMS) – a senior executive appointment equivalent to a private-sector Executive Committee role.

The DG DMS is the functional head of the Defence Medical Enterprise. Reporting to the Commander of Cyber & Specialist Operations Command, and accountable to the Permanent Secretary and the Chief of the Defence Staff, you will lead delivery of a single, integrated military medical system.

You will be responsible for a workforce of over 12,000 personnel, including more than 5,400 specialist clinicians, and an annual operating budget of approximately £620m. You will operate at the highest levels of government, advising Ministers, senior military leaders and Defence boards.

Key responsibilities

• Lead implementation of the Strategic Defence Review 2025 vision for Defence Medical Services.
• Ensure the safe, effective and ethical delivery of healthcare worldwide for Defence personnel.
• Provide authoritative advice to Ministers and senior leaders.
• Drive major reform.
• Provide strong executive leadership on performance, productivity and value for money.
• Represent Defence Medical Services nationally and internationally.

We are open to candidates from clinical or non-clinical backgrounds, and from Defence, healthcare, the wider public sector or equivalent complex organisations. You will bring: Senior executive leadership experience with a strong record of delivery and reform at scale; Credible understanding of healthcare systems, governance and workforce issues; Proven ability to lead across organisational boundaries and build effective partnerships; Experience delivering large-scale transformation aligned to strategic priorities; The credibility and judgement to influence Ministers, senior military leaders and clinicians; and Prior experience within Defence or military medicine is advantageous but not essential.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a nationally critical capability at a pivotal moment – shaping a modern Defence Medical Enterprise that underpins the UK’s operational readiness, resilience in crisis, and contribution to a stronger national health system.

The Ministry of Defence has retained Russell Reynolds Associates to advise on this appointment. For further information about the position and how to apply, please review the position specification below.

The closing date for applications is 23:55 GMT on Wednesday 11^th March 2026.

Position Specification

Crown Commercial Service
Non-Executive Chair

United Kingdom
2110-012L

The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) plays a vital role in helping the public sector buy goods and services to deliver maximum value for the taxpayer. Using their commercial expertise, CCS helps thousands of public and third sector buyers in the UK to purchase everything from locum doctors and laptops to police cars and electricity. It is the biggest public procurement organisation in the UK and the collective purchasing power of its customers, combined with its first-class procurement knowledge, means it can get the best commercial deals in the interests of taxpayers. 

We are looking for an exceptional individual to lead the CCS Board as Non-Executive Chair to support its ambitious growth plan and vision to be the provider of choice for public sector organisations seeking commercial and procurement solutions. This is an exciting challenge at an incredibly important time both in the organisation’s journey and when significant focus will be given to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of procurement across the entire public sector as CCS manages the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

You will lead and manage the business of the Board to provide clear strategic direction and focus for CCS to deliver the agreed strategy and objectives. You will support the CEO to execute the agreed strategy, and add value by offering independent, constructive challenge towards the strategic direction, performance and management control of CCS. You will bring a successful track record of leadership in complex customer-focused environments by providing scrutiny, governance and strategic leadership grounded in board/executive committee level experience.
CCS is committed to diversity throughout the organisation, and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.

CCS has retained Russell Reynolds Associates to advise on this appointment. For further information about the position and additional details on qualifications, requirements, terms and conditions of service and how to apply, please see the Candidate Pack below. The closing date for applications is 23:59 on 12th November 2021.

Candidate Pack
Disability Confident Scheme Form

Rector
University of Luxembourg

2109-085L

Founded in 2003, the University of Luxembourg is the first and only university of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. Multilingual and international, it is a modern institution with an inclusive and friendly culture. The primary focus of the University is research and the bulk of the degrees offered are at masters and doctoral level. It undertakes work in a broad range of disciplines and is noted for its international outlook which is reflected in the composition of both staff and student bodies. The University has three academic faculties devoted to world class teaching and research: the Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine; the Faculty of Law, Economics and Finance; and the Faculty of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences. It also has three interdisciplinary centres, which foster research excellence and knowledge transfer: the Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust; the Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine; and the Luxembourg Centre for Contemporary and Digital History.

The University of Luxembourg intends to appoint a new Rector. The Rector of the University of Luxembourg will play a significant role in the continued growth of the Institution. The University’s new leader will build on its established strengths and move it purposefully towards realising the long-term vision in its strategy. The Rector will understand the context of the University and relish the leadership role it plays in Luxembourg’s cultural and social life. S/he will be an engaged and effective personal presence in Luxembourg life. The Rector will model the character of the University: cosmopolitan, committed to excellence, and clear-sighted. A gifted communicator, the Rector will be able to engage effectively with a wide variety of audiences, both academic and non-academic, and will build relationships with all stakeholders.

The University of Luxembourg has retained Russell Reynolds Associates to advise on this appointment. For further information about the position and additional details on qualifications, requirements, terms and conditions of service and how to apply, please follow the link to the position specification below.

The closing date for applications is 1 December 2021

Position Specification

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance
Chief Operating Officer

Geneva, Switzerland
2108-017L

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance will appoint their first Chief Operating Officer. Gavi is at the heart of the world’s response to the most pressing global public health issues. From the response to COVID-19, to targeting immunisation at the millions of children who currently miss out, to maintaining stockpiles to protect the world from infectious disease outbreaks, it is a critical partner. The complexity of Gavi’s work has increased considerably, not least through its role in co-leading the COVAX initiative, the unprecedented global initiative to provide equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines. Gavi has also grown dramatically in recent years, from a $10bn fund to $21bn. Gavi has created this new role to ensure that its operational excellence keeps pace with this change.

Gavi is a public-private partnership committed to save lives and protect people’s health by increasing equitable and sustainable use of vaccines. The Vaccine Alliance brings together developing country and donor governments, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the World Bank, the vaccine industry, technical agencies, civil society, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and other private sector partners. Gavi uses innovative finance mechanisms, including co-financing by recipient countries, to secure sustainable funding and adequate supply of quality vaccines. Since 2000, Gavi has contributed to the immunisation of nearly a billion children and the prevention of more than 15 million future deaths. Gavi’s business model combines excellence from both the private and public sectors and a commitment to running a lean organisation that makes a measurable impact upon global health, including the long-term strengthening of health systems.

The new COO will ensure that Gavi is a leader in operational excellence and continues to deliver results, whilst successfully managing the extraordinary growth and complexity of its operations. The COO will be a part of the Executive Office and a member of the Senior Management Team. This person will ensure that business processes, secretariat operations and staff performance are bolstered as Gavi embarks on a highly ambitious strategy for 2021-25 and co-leads COVAX. S/he will also ensure the enhancement of organisational capability and guide its ongoing transformation to meet the demands of Gavi 5.0 and COVAX. S/he will bring a profound understanding of the leadership required to strengthen Gavi’s people, culture, governance, risk management, and operational effectiveness. S/he will bring a blend of experience at senior levels from both development and private sector organisations.

Gavi is committed to fostering a just, equitable and diverse culture free from racism and discrimination in which all staff, partners and stakeholders feel empowered, safe, and heard.

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance has retained Russell Reynolds Associates to assist with this appointment. Please review the position specification attached, the How to Apply section is at the end of the document: send your applications to responses@russellreynolds.com by 26th November 2021. Competitive compensation and benefits will be offered.

Position Specification

Environmental Defense Fund
Chief Representative and Vice President, China

Beijing, China
2109-003CN

With world attention focused on both the environment and the economy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is where policymakers and business leaders turn for win-win solutions. A leading green group, with programs around the world, has tripled in size over the past decade by focusing on strong science, uncommon partnerships and market-based approaches. EDF operates in over 20 countries around the world, with a track record of using rigorous science and economics, spanning political divides, mobilizing public support, and catalyzing innovation and investments to create solutions that are practical and implementable today. 

EDF are currently seeking an Chief Representative and Vice President, China. S/he will be EDF’s lead representative and voice in China. S/he will develop and articulate EDF goals and strategies and work in close collaboration with senior program staff around the globe to implement those strategies. S/he will identify and establish a network of partners, including research institutes, universities, media, commercial enterprises, and government officials. S/he will recognize and capitalize on opportunities for progress, and maintain EDF as a highly respected voice in China. S/he reports to the Executive Vice President, Regions. 

EDF has retained Russell Reynolds Associates to advise on this appointment. For further information about the position and additional details on qualifications, requirements, terms and conditions of service and how to apply, please follow the link to the position specification below.

Position Specification

Rockefeller Foundation
COO, The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (‘TGEA’)

New York/Washington DC
2107-077L

The Rockefeller Foundation is seeking to appoint the Chief Operating Officer ('COO') of The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet ('TGEA'), a new global platform it is establishing.

The Rockefeller Foundation has already demonstrated what it takes to scale distributed renewable electricity (DRE) solutions in select markets, with data-driven insights on the business models and technologies needed to unleash them. The organization has built a unique global community of partners, including donors, investors, private DRE developers, large energy utilities, governments and NGOs who are actively engaged with the Rockefeller Foundation, and are eager to do more. Based on this experience, the Foundation believes now is the moment to harness this collective ambition via TGEA.  In launching TGEA, the Foundation will position energy at the nexus of development and action on climate change, and thereby lay the groundwork to ultimately frame it as a new model for global development.

As a member of TGEA senior leadership team, the COO will partner closely with the CEO of TGEA to develop and lead strategic operations for a newly established multi-billion-dollar global platform. The COO will shape and deliver world-class operations capability commensurate with the vision, strategy, and operating model of TGEA, with best-in-class systems, processes, people, and culture needed to deliver our ambitious goals. The COO, working closely with the Chief Strategy and Programs Office (CSPO), Chief Investment Officer (CIO), and regional hubs, will design, build, and oversee a strategic resourcing and business plan, support fit-for-purpose and cost-conscious operational capacities and practices across the organization, and ensure that high quality control, compliance and risk management practices are in place to deliver a highly accountable, agile and transparent organization.

The COO will play a lead role in overseeing a transparent, seamless, and effective transition of TGEA to becoming a fully independent organization – all the while ensuring that TGEA maintains the highest standards of financial management, operational rigor, and accountable engagement with contractors, grantees and investees.

The Rockefeller Foundation has retained Russell Reynolds Associates to advise on this appointment. To apply for this role please send a copy of your CV and a Statement of Suitability to responses@russellreynolds.com, including the role title and reference 2107-077L in the email subject line.

The Rockefeller Foundation is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and to compliance with all federal, state, and local laws concerning employment discrimination, including the Americans with Disabilities Act.  To this end, the Foundation ensures equal opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, lawful alien status, physical, mental, and medical disability, veteran status or liability for service in the United States Armed Forces.

Position Specification

Charities Aid Foundation
Chief Financial Officer

United Kingdom
2110-032L

The Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) intends to appoint a new CFO to join the Group Executive Management team. As a key member of the Group Executive Management team, the CFO is accountable to the CEO and takes a strategic role in the overall management of CAF Group. The CFO has primary day-to-day responsibility for planning, implementing, managing and controlling all financial-related activities of CAF Group. The CFO provides and is responsible for the overall financial leadership and associated governance controls, strategy and its execution for the organisation and its subsidiaries.

CAF is a leading charity operating in the UK and internationally. It sits in a unique place, acting as a meeting point connecting companies, private philanthropists, fellow foundations, governments, charities and not-for-profit enterprises. CAF’s work connects the vital organisations, institutions and individuals working to ensure that everyone has a stake in the future. One of the largest charitable foundations in Europe, CAF works to facilitate giving and provides financial services tailored to the needs of charities.

The new CFO will join at an exciting time for the organisation. The range of advisory services it provides to both charities and their donors is growing. Its connections to them and to policy makers have never been more important, as has been highlighted during the pandemic. The CFO will bring a proven track record of financial leadership in organisations of significant scale and complexity, as well as an appreciation of the charity regulation. S/he will have a demonstrable ability to lead and motivate a high performing team, to manage complex stakeholders, sound commercial thinking and good judgement.

Russell Reynolds Associates is assisting CAF with this appointment. For further information about this role please review the position specification linked below and send your CV and cover letter to responses@russellreynolds.com including 2110-032L in the subject line by 4th November 2021.

CAF is committed to diversity at every level of its workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.

The closing date for applications is 4 November 2021 

Position Specification

Nuffield Foundation
Trustee

Central London/remote working
2108-089L

The Nuffield Foundation is an independent charitable trust with a mission to advance educational opportunity and social well-being in the UK. It was established in 1943 by William Morris, Lord Nuffield, the founder of Morris Motors.

The Nuffield Foundation improves understanding of the issues affecting people's chances in life and identifies ways to address disadvantage and inequality in our digitally driven society. It funds research that informs social policy and has an impact on people's lives, primarily in Education, Welfare and Justice, although much of its work cuts across these.

The Board of Trustees of the Nuffield Foundation seeks to appoint a new Trustee. This individual will be committed to the mission of the Foundation. They will bring an understanding of how research funded by the Foundation can influence policy making and practice, with an academic authority and wider public impact to improve the lives and life chances of those the Foundation serves.

The Trustee will be required to work with fellow Trustees to provide governance and strategic oversight, ensuring the organisation is well placed, and has the financial stability to deliver on its mission, objectives, and ambition. Trustees approve decisions on major grants and awards. The Trustee will use their specific skills, knowledge, and experience to support aspects of the overall leadership and strategic development of the organisation. This may involve sitting on sub-committees, leading discussions on key issues, providing advice and guidance on key aspects of the grant portfolio or other initiatives where the Trustee has expertise.

The Foundation seeks a highly experienced, motivated, and enthusiastic individual who may have acquired the appropriate experience from a wide range of organisations and sectors, including private and public sectors. They will have experience of operating at a strategic level in a lead role (CEO, Director or Board level). Previous Trustee experience is highly desirable, and although experience within the charity or academic sector is not essential, an understanding of, and commitment to, social welfare, justice and equity will be needed.

The Nuffield Foundation funds a diverse range of projects. It is an employer that values diversity and supports inclusion. The Foundation is trying to increase the diversity of those who work with us and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Russell Reynolds Associates has been retained to advise on this appointment. For further information about the position and additional details on requirements, terms and conditions of service, and how to apply, please follow the link to the position specification below.

The closing date for applications is 23:59 on Friday 8th October 2021.

Position Specification

Care Quality Commission
Chief Inspector, Hospitals

United Kingdom
P2107-118L

Do you want to make a real difference to people's care? This role is an exciting opportunity to join the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and drive change at a national level.  As the independent regulator of health and social care in England, CQC makes sure that health and social care services provide people with safe, effective, compassionate, high-quality care, and we encourage services to improve. 

Our new strategy, launched this year, sets out an ambitious future that will ensure we keep delivering our purpose. We are currently seeking a new Chief Inspector of Hospitals to help support this mission. Directly accountable to the Chief Executive and a member of the CQC Unitary Board and Executive Team, the Chief Inspector is an influential figure passionately committed to improving care in England's hospitals, both NHS or private providers.  As the CQC's professional head for the Hospitals sector, the Chief Inspector is responsible for setting regulatory policy and, working in close collaboration with the Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and the Chief inspector of Primary Medical Services & Integrated Care, ensuring the delivery of the highest standards of safety and quality of care for the people of this country.

We are looking for someone who is: accustomed to operating and collaborating at a senior level, and able to deal with both complexity and ambiguity.  This is a high-profile role, and the Chief Inspector will possess the political acuity and professional standing to be credible to a diverse stakeholder group that includes the Secretary of State, clinical professionals, hospital leaders and the public. Ideally, candidates will have a background as a senior clinician or board executive with significant experience in the hospital sector, particularly the NHS. They will be a credible and resilient communicator, with impeccable professional values, able to make difficult decisions and deliver cultural change with, and through others. We expect the successful candidate to make a significant contribution to inclusivity and diversity internally and in the sectors we regulate.

The closing date for applications is midday on Friday 15th October 2021.

CQC has retained Russell Reynolds Associates to advise on this appointment. For further information about the position and additional details on qualifications, requirements, terms and conditions of service and how to apply, please follow the link to the position specification below.

CQC is committed to promoting a fair and inclusive workplace where all our people can flourish and reach their full potential. We know diverse teams allow for a more creative and productive environment and therefore we want applications from a range of people, regardless of age, gender, gender identity or expression, religion or belief, disability, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

Position Specification 

Environmental Defense Fund
Executive Vice President, Regions

Job/Reference Number
2109-005BL

With world attention on both the environment and the economy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is where policymakers and business leaders turn for win-win solutions. We tackle urgent threats with practical solutions by focusing on strong science, uncommon partnerships, and market-based approaches. We are one of the world's largest environmental organizations, with more than two million members and a staff of over 800 scientists, economists, policy experts, and other professionals around the world. We operate in 22 geographies with unique projects running across four programs. You can be part of a vibrant workplace that welcomes diverse perspectives, talents, and contributions, where innovation and results are a way of life.

EDF are currently seeking an Executive Vice President, Regions. Reporting to the Executive Director, they will be responsible for fostering an impactful and integrated EDF agenda across our four anchor geographies of China, India, Europe, and the United States. This position is designed to work in partnership with senior executives across the organization to leverage EDF’s global capacity, capabilities and opportunities to deliver on our 2030 goals and achieve significant results at scale. The EVP, Regions ensures regional teams are set up for success and integrated within the matrixed organization.

EDF has retained Russell Reynolds Associates to advise on this appointment. For further information about the position and additional details on qualifications, requirements, terms and conditions of service and how to apply, please follow the link to the position specification below.

The closing date for applications is Monday 8th November.

The Royal Mint
Non-Executive Director

United Kingdom
P2107-056L

The Royal Mint is a unique organisation with more than 1,000 years of history and a brand that is close to the nation’s heart. Building on the foundations of this rich heritage, The Royal Mint is undergoing an exciting transformation that harnesses its rich heritage and British craftsmanship, alongside modern manufacturing and commercial practices. Already the world’s largest exporting mint and market leader in the design, manufacture and sales of high-quality circulating and commemorative coins, The Royal Mint has a portfolio of exciting international B2B and B2C businesses, including their rapidly growing precious metals business, and a multi-faceted consumer division.

The Royal Mint is a wholly owned government company that operates with significant commercial autonomy. To aid its ambitious growth plans, it is seeking a new non-executive director to support and constructively challenge the strategic direction of the business whilst adding diversity of thought and industry experience to the Board. Specific desirable skills and experience include:

• An executive career spent in entrepreneurial manufacturing businesses, especially within a direct-to-consumer industry.
• Strong executive experience in driving transformation and improvements.
• Supply chain experience.
• A track record of delivering to international markets.

The closing date for applications is Monday 13th September.

The Royal Mint has retained Russell Reynolds Associates to advise on this appointment. For further information about the position and additional details on qualifications, requirements, terms and conditions of service and how to apply, please follow the link to the position specification below. 

The Royal Mint is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from all candidates.

Position Specification