Chief Executive Officer - London

This is a rare opportunity to lead a nationally respected institution at a pivotal moment, shaping its future direction and driving meaningful environmental impact at scale.

An established and highly respected professional membership organisation within the environmental sector is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through its next phase of growth, influence and impact.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a purpose-driven institution dedicated to advancing professional excellence, strengthening environmental leadership and championing evidence-based solutions to climate and biodiversity challenges.

About the Organisation

This well-established professional body represents over 10,000 members working across government, business, academia and the third sector. The organisation develops careers and competencies, delivers high-quality professional development and training, convenes influential events, publishes thought leadership, and plays an active role in shaping environmental policy.

Having declared a climate and biodiversity emergency, the organisation is committed to empowering its members to drive sustainable change nationally and globally.

The Role

The Chief Executive Officer will lead and shape the strategic direction of the organisation, ensuring it operates effectively, sustainably and in alignment with its mission and values.

Working closely with the Chair and Board of Trustees, the CEO will be accountable for overall financial and operational performance, delivery of the growth strategy, and enhancing the organisation’s reputation and impact at national and international levels.

This role requires a visible, credible and influential leader who can build strong partnerships across government, industry, academia and the wider environmental community.

The CEO will:

• Develop and deliver the organisation’s strategic and operational plans
• Ensure long-term financial sustainability and identify new income opportunities
• Strengthen the membership value proposition and support growth and retention
• Provide effective governance support to the Board of Trustees
• Build and maintain high-level external relationships and partnerships
• Act as principal ambassador, raising the organisation’s profile and influence
• Lead, motivate and develop a high-performing executive team
• Champion diversity, equity and inclusion
• Drive digital innovation and organisational effectiveness
• Oversee policy leadership aligned with member interests

The Person

We are seeking a strategic, commercially astute and values-led leader with:

• Significant senior leadership experience within a membership body, professional institution, charity or mission-driven organisation
• A strong track record of delivering organisational growth and financial resilience
• Experience working effectively with Boards or Trustees
• The ability to influence public policy and operate credibly at senior levels
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• An empowering and collaborative leadership style
• A clear commitment to environmental sustainability and public benefit

Experience within the environmental or sustainability sectors would be advantageous.

What’s on Offer

• A comprehensive benefits package including Life Assurance, Critical Illness Cover, Income Protection, Private Medical Insurance, Dental Cover
• A values-driven culture with passionate and committed colleagues
• The opportunity to shape and lead a nationally and internationally recognised institution
• Ongoing professional development and learning opportunities

This is an outstanding opportunity for a purpose-driven leader to guide a respected organisation at a pivotal moment in its evolution.