The Academy of Social Sciences is seeking an outstanding individual to serve as its next President and provide visible, influential leadership at an important point in the Academy's development.

The Academy is the UK's national academy of academics, practitioners and learned societies in the social sciences and the leading independent voice for the social sciences. We champion the vital role that the social sciences play in education, research, government and business including their contributions to society, the economy and public policy. We bring together a distinguished Fellowship and a broad community of learned societies and social science organisations.

Our next President will be a compelling advocate for the social sciences and for the Academy. Working closely with the Chief Executive, Council and Fellows, they will help to strengthen our profile, reach and influence, build important relationships across government and public life, and support the Academy in delivering its ambitions for the future.

We are looking for a highly credible and accomplished senior leader with the stature to represent the Academy externally and the ability to engage and influence across academia, government, business, civil society and the wider social sciences community.

Candidates will bring strategic insight, sound judgement and a collaborative approach to leadership and governance. They will be an excellent communicator and relationship builder, with the ability to chair effectively, bring people together around a shared purpose and advocate confidently on issues of national importance. They may come from a variety of backgrounds including practising social scientists in the public, private or third sectors, academia and as users of social science.

This is an opportunity to take on a significant national leadership role at a time when insights from the social sciences are increasingly important in understanding and responding to some of the most complex challenges facing society.

The appointment is unremunerated, with an anticipated time commitment averaging approximately two days per month.

For an informal conversation contact Jacqueline.lau@gatenbysanderson.com

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Recruitment Timetable

Closing date
9am, Monday 11th January 2027

Preliminary interviews
with GatenbySanderson w/c 18th January 2027 (online, via Microsoft Teams)

Short listing
Shortlisted candidates will have the opportunity for an informal discussion with either the current President, Will Hutton, the Chief Executive, or a member of the Council. w/c 8th & 15th February 2027

Final panel
w/c 1st March 2027

How to Apply

How to Apply

• Please submit your CV (maximum 4 pages) along with a covering letter (maximum 2 pages), which tells us why you are interested in becoming their new President and what you will bring.
• Detail any employment or education gaps.
• Be ready to provide the names, positions, organisations and contact details for two referees; one should be your current or most recent employer. Referees will be contacted for those proceeding to final stages. We will always gain your permission before we contact referees.
• Let us know any difficulty you may have with the indicative timetable.
• Check that your contact details are correct before you submit.

Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email confirmation. If you do not receive, please email contactus@gatenbysanderson.com