Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) leads the UK’s diplomatic, development and consular work around the world, with over 17,000 staff in a global network of 281 offices worldwide.

We are now looking for an exceptional individual to join FCDO as our Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA). This is a unique and exciting role, and as CSA you will be the lead scientific adviser to the Foreign Secretary on all the UK’s foreign and development policy. More broadly, the CSA is a trusted advisor to FCDO Ministers and senior officials providing analysis, independent challenge, and thought leadership on issues ranging climate change and global science partnership to how emerging technology can best support the Sustainable Development Goals. You will also be a part of the FCDO Senior Leadership team, with a team of c.270 scientists and officials.

Against a backdrop of a shifting balance of global power, food insecurity, worsening impacts of climate change and the urgent need to get all Sustainable Development Goals back on track, this is amongst the most rewarding and challenging jobs in Government.

Candidates should bring an outstanding track record in leading and conducting applied research of international recognition in an area of interest to the FCDO, that has demonstrable impact on policy and populations. You will bring a proven ability to synthesise science and research findings across a range of disciplines and be able to communicate complex concepts clearly, and a track record of policy makers. With leadership and people management skills, you will have the ability to strategically prioritise over a wide portfolio of work.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference AXWD2. Alternatively telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours). Applications should be received by midday, Monday 21 October 2024.