Chair
Demos
15 Whitehall, Westminster, London, SW1a 2DD
Voluntary basis, with reasonable expenses reimbursed
Demos is the UK’s leading cross-party think tank, founded in 1993, its mission to upgrade democracy with a new deal between state and citizen that shares power differently. We are at an exciting moment for our organisation with a strong team led by our fantastic CEO Polly Curtis and new financial strength powering innovative work to improve the practice of everyday democracy, reform public services and reshape the economy and technology for citizens.
The organisation has renewed and strengthened over the past four years to rise to the challenge of the democratic moment we’re in: a moment of growing democratic emergency in which our traditions and institutions are threatened by a dangerous loss of public confidence, fuelled by global trends and recent events.
Our mission – to upgrade democracy – is big and ambitious; our methods are practical, bold and hopeful.
THE ROLE
The Demos Board is highly committed, driven to ensure the organisation can meet the challenges of our times, and works with an open, collaborative style. We’ve always valued the different skills and perspectives brought by each Board member and continue to see our different backgrounds as a rich asset. As Dame Julie Mellor concludes her final term as our Chair later this year, we are looking for an exceptional strategic leader to succeed her.
You could come from any sector but, wherever you have worked, you will offer an established reputation and network along with an outstanding record of achievement.
We are looking for someone with a genuine personal interest in Demos and what we do, and a big vision for what may be possible. You will help us navigate the new terrain of the democracy emergency. A formidable advocate for democracy, committed to the cross-party approach, but with the political insight to understand how to influence at the highest level, you will bring your strategic reach, personal influence and sophisticated interpersonal skills to a close-knit team. We are looking for an experienced organisational board member or chair who has the skills, techniques and intuition to support and guide this superb team.
If you are inspired by our mission and want to be part of our journey, we would love to hear from you.
INFORMATION
Download the candidate brief to find out about the role.
DOWNLOADHow to apply
To make an application, please click on the apply now button below, with the following prepared:
- A CV or equivalent biographical information (no more than three sides);
- A short covering letter that explains your motivation and suitability and confirms that you would not be subject to any conflict of interest or eligibility breach;
- Please tell us if there are any dates during the selection process (outlined below) when you would not be available to participate.
The closing date is Friday 20th March 2026
Recruitment timeline
Preliminary interviews: Late March and early April 2026
Agreement of the final shortlist: Candidates will hear towards the end of April 2026
Informal meetings: Late April 2026
Final interview: Likely to be in w/c 4th May
Forward Board meeting dates
Tuesday 15th September 2026, 3 – 6pm
Tuesday 8th December 2026, 3 – 6pm