The Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB) is searching globally to appoint a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Join us in our mission to make respect for human rights part of everyday business.
IHRB has been a trusted partner to businesses, governments, and civil society organisations for more than 15 years, providing thought leadership, cutting-edge research, and strategic guidance to ensure respect for human rights in economic activity.

OVERVIEW

We are seeking a visionary, dynamic, and strategic leader to serve as our next CEO. If you are passionate about advancing human rights in business across sectors, regions, and impact areas, and you have a proven track record in leadership, fundraising, and driving strategic change, this role is an opportunity to have a meaningful impact on a global scale.
As CEO, you will shape IHRB’s strategy; lead the organisation’s operational direction; nurture its financial health and culture; and foster strategic partnerships with key stakeholders across the globe.

ABOUT YOU

We’re looking for:
Visionary leadership: You have the ability to lead with purpose, empowering teams, inspiring stakeholders, and driving meaningful change in business practices globally.
A strong track record in fundraising & stakeholder engagement: You bring extensive experience in securing diverse funding sources and building relationships with key stakeholders across business, government, and civil society.
Deep expertise in business and human rights across a range of issuess: You possess a deep understanding of the global human rights and broader sustainability landscape, including the interconnected nature of the climate and biodiversity crisis, as well as root causes and key levers for change.
Strategic mindset: You are a skilled strategist, able to adapt to changing landscapes and identify opportunities for IHRB to lead in global human rights initiatives and dialogue.
Commitment to inclusion & diversity: You promote a workplace culture that values diversity and open communication, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

For full details about this role and to apply, please visit IHRB’s dedicated recruitment platform by clicking apply. Please upload your CV and cover letter on the portal. In your cover letter you should address your suitability for this role based on the relevant skills and experience outlined in this job description.
As part of our ongoing commitment to an accessible recruitment process, applicants with disabilities are encouraged to contact IHRB to discuss any support or assistance they may have during the application or recruitment process. Please contact our recruitment partners - tanith.allen@acre.com and emily.goetsch@acre.com - in the first instance.
IHRB is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships. This means we will not discriminate against candidates or employees based on their protected characteristics.
For more information, please reach out to our search partners at Acre: tanith.allen@acre.com and emily.goetsch@acre.com
Applications from unsuccessful candidates will be held on file for 6 months after the end of the recruitment process.
If you are interested in this opportunity, we kindly request that you apply via this advert, as opposed to sending anyone on our team an email or LinkedIn direct message. We are eager to ensure that each candidate application is considered fairly, and receives a consistent experience. Unfortunately, we cannot ensure this standard if you enquire about a role via email or LinkedIn message, as it falls outside of our established process

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic leadership: Guide IHRB’s strategic vision, working closely with the Board of Trustees, team members, and stakeholders to implement long-term plans that ensure human rights are at the heart of business practices worldwide.
Fundraising & development: Lead fundraising efforts, building diverse revenue streams and expanding IHRB’s influence through institutional, government, corporate, and individual donations.
Stakeholder engagement: Forge and expand strategic partnerships with businesses, governments, financial institutions, foundations, civil society, and other key groups, advancing IHRB’s profile as a leading voice on business and human rights.
Financial oversight: Ensure sound financial management and resource allocation to maximise the impact of IHRB’s work.
Organisational culture: Foster a purpose-driven, inclusive, and high-performance culture, empowering and inspiring the team to achieve IHRB’s mission and uphold its values.

If you are a bold and inspiring leader with a commitment to a more just, regenerative economy, we invite you to apply for this critical role.

• Expected start date: November 2025
• Hours: Full-time (5 days, 37.5 hours per week)
• Duration: Permanent
• Location: Remote/Home-based, location flexible.
• Pay: £130,000 - £150,000
• Annual leave: 28 days annual leave + bank holidays. Additional leave for office closure through the December holiday period.
• We’re fully remote: Our team are based around the world, though most of our meetings take place during GMT hours