Job vacancies

Chief Executive


NEF is committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of their background. We acknowledge that people from certain backgrounds are under-represented in research and policy making and we’re committed to doing what we can to correct this. Further details follow the jobs listed below.


NEF is looking for a new Chief Executive.

We are proud of the progress we have made under our outgoing Chief Executive, Miatta Fahnbulleh, who leaves a firm foundation on which you will be able to build. We particularly value a collaborative, empowering approach to leadership grounded in inclusivity and wellbeing, and we are looking for someone that is committed to making change and has the energy, enthusiasm, and pragmatism to deliver tangible outcomes for both people and planet.

This is a unique opportunity to make a difference on the defining issues of our time — from pushing for a more democratic economy to tackling the climate crisis.

Find out more about the role and how to apply.


Disability confident employerHappy to talk flexible working

NEF is committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of their background. We acknowledge that people from certain backgrounds are under-represented in research and policy making and we’re committed to doing what we can to correct this. We are particularly keen to receive applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic people; people with disabilities; people who identify as being LGTBQIA; people who have a mental health condition; and people who identify as working class now or in the past.

We are also aware that many highly capable prospective candidates nonetheless rule themselves out of work in research and policy because they underestimate their own ability to do the role. With this in mind, we strongly encourage applications from anyone who is prepared to learn and grow on the job and would like to stress that past experience of working in think tanks is not required.

As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy. We make use of positive action to select between candidates of equal merit as a way to address under-representation in our workforce.

We recognise that people have commitments and responsibilities outside of work, therefore NEF supports flexible working. We are also open to suggestions of job shares.