Overview

As one of the world's most influential legal institutes, the British Institute of International and Comparative Law (BIICL) combines world-class applied research with a charitable ethos to serve and advance international law, comparative law, and the rule of law. Our research shapes governments and international organisations, influences policymakers, and guides businesses across jurisdictions. Through discussion sessions, training programmes, conferences, and our International and Comparative Law Quarterly, we bridge academic excellence with real-world impact.

Following Professor Spyros Maniatis's successful tenure, we seek a new Director and Chief Executive Officer to guide BIICL through a pivotal moment in its history. Reporting to the Chair of Trustees, the postholder will provide strategic, financial, and operational oversight whilst serving as our principal representative on the global stage.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic, financial, and operational oversight for BIICL.
• Act as the organisation's principal representative on the global stage.
• Guide BIICL through a pivotal period, shaping its direction and impact in international and comparative law.
• Lead and inspire high-performing teams while maintaining BIICL's reputation for academic excellence.

Qualifications and qualities

• Intellectual credibility in international and comparative law through academic scholarship, senior legal practice, or policy experience.
• Proven leadership with senior management experience; ability to inspire teams and sustain high performance.
• Strategic vision, entrepreneurial drive, and ability to secure sustainable funding from diversified income streams while preserving independence and rigour.
• Excellent communication skills; ability to articulate complex legal concepts to diverse audiences and command respect at high levels.
• Commitment to integrity, collaboration, and leadership; an ambassador for BIICL who fosters openness, accountability, and a collegial culture.

Additional information

This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of international legal scholarship and policy, leading an institution that advances the rule of law globally. The Director and CEO will influence legal thinking, drive organisational growth, and set the standard for excellence in international and comparative law.

How to apply

Applications should consist of a full curriculum vitae along with a covering letter addressing the role and person specification. Completed applications should be uploaded at the following URL, quoting reference number 8024: https://PLusPortal.PerrettLaver.com. For informal inquiries, please contact Cathy Long at perrettlaver.com.

The deadline for applications is 9:00am BST on Monday 13th October 2025.

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