Chief Executive Officer

For over 30 years, Global Witness has played a distinctive role in the environmental and human rights movement. Founded in 1993, we are an investigative, campaigning organisation that aims to secure better protections for people and the planet. Our work has consistently focused on shifting power: from uncovering the secretive deals and violence underpinning the blood diamond trade, to exposing global systems of corruption, and amplifying first-hand testimony from communities facing harm.

Check you match the skill requirements for this role, as well as associated experience, then apply with your CV below.

We speak truth to power, standing up to corporations and governments who enable climate breakdown. This work is becoming ever more challenging as authoritarianism spreads, and wealth and influence are increasingly concentrated in the hands of those who seek to profit from planetary destruction. Yet it is precisely these challenges that make our mission more urgent than ever.

We are currently seeking a Chief Executive Officer who will lead Global Witness at a time when its work is highly visible, increasingly complex and needed more than ever. Reporting to the Board, the CEO will set the strategic direction and lead a cohesive senior leadership team to deliver Global Witness’s mission with clarity, courage and rigour. The role combines strategic leadership with public influence, organisational stewardship and deep commitment to equity, integrity and impact. You will also represent Global Witness externally, maintaining its influence with funders, policymakers and partners, and ensuring its work continues to shape debate and decision-making at the highest levels.

We are seeking a bold and courageous leader who is able to take risks where necessary, but who also has the judgement and experience to operate effectively in politically sensitive and fast-moving environments. You will bring senior leadership experience within, or aligned to, investigative, campaigning, advocacy or related fields gained in an international context with a clear track record of setting direction and delivering results.

You will combine a strong understanding of the global political, economic, human rights and environmental landscape with the ability to anticipate and respond to emerging developments. You will be credible at senior levels, with the judgement and presence to engage a wide range of stakeholders, alongside a demonstrable track record in supporting fundraising and working with major funders.

Your approach will be collaborative but decisive and you will display an inclusive leadership style with a clear commitment to equity and inclusion. Above all, you will be committed to the purpose of Global Witness, bringing integrity, sound judgement and the ability to take responsibility in a demanding and visible role.

To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter, detailing how you fulfil the role description and personal specification to Perrett Laver Vacancies. The deadline for applications is Friday 29th May 2026, 9:00am BST.

The role will be based at Global Witness’ offices in London and the salary will be commensurate with the seniority of the appointment. Global Witness is conducting an international search and is able to provide visa sponsorship for the successful candidate, where required.

We would appreciate your participation in completing our Equality and Diversity Monitoring Form.

Global Witness wants to meet the aims and commitments set out in its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strategy. This includes not discriminating under the Equality Act 2010 and building an accurate picture of the make-up of the workforce and candidates in encouraging equality and diversity.

Perrett Laver will conduct an executive search process in parallel with the public advertisement of the role. Longlisted candidates will be invited to interview with Perrett Laver in late-May, early-June and the Selection Panel will subsequently meet to decide upon a final shortlist for the post in June. If you require any reasonable adjustments to assist you in the selection process, please advise us of these so that we can make appropriate arrangements.

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To confidentially get in touch about this role, or for advice on your application please email, Jess Winfield, 

Should you require access to these documents in alternative formats, please contact Freya Coombes, 

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