Chief Operating Officer

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation develops and promotes the idea of a circular economy - one that is restorative and regenerative by design. Through research, business collaboration and advocacy, the Foundation works to accelerate the global transition from a linear take make waste economy to

one that designs out waste and pollution; keeps products and materials in use and regenerates natural systems.

After 15 years setting the ambition across the globe resulting in 75 countries with strategic circular economy roadmaps and 55% of businesses with a circular economy strategy, we are now entering a new phase around implementation and scale up of the circular economy in action in the Global South as well as the Global North. We are seeking a Chief Operating Officer for this new era.

Although an NGO, the Foundation operates to make the circular economy a reality at the highest levels of global organisations and governments. This means it requires operations which are nimble and aligned with creating new market opportunities.

Role Summary

As Chief Operating Officer, you will play a key strategic and operational leadership role at the Foundation. You will be responsible for the day to day administrative and operational functions of the organisation, ensuring alignment between the Foundation's mission, people, systems, and impact. Working in partnership with the CEO and part of the global executive leadership team, you will help scale the Foundation's work globally while safeguarding operational excellence, financial sustainability, and a thriving internal culture.

Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Operations

Translate the Foundation's strategic goals into effective operational plans.

Lead cross functional coordination to ensure programmes are delivered on time, within budget, and with measurable impact.

Drive the execution of key organisational initiatives, especially as the Foundation scales its influence globally.

Expand internationally, whilst maintaining a consistency in operations in every region.

Drive the development of talent across the Foundation, working closely with the People Team to ensure professional growth opportunities are available and aligned with the organisation's mission and values.

Manage and mentor the heads of key departments creating a collaborative and transparent leadership culture.

Champion the Foundation's values of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration.

Financial & Legal Oversight

Oversee budgeting, financial planning, compliance and risk management with the Executive Finance Lead and General Counsel.

Ensure that funding and expenditure aligns with strategic priorities and donor requirements.

Governance & Reporting

Support the CEO and Board of Trustees with timely and accurate reporting on performance and operations.

Ensure that operational policies and procedures meet the highest standards of transparency, ethics, and sustainability.

Systems & Technology

Lead the optimisation of technology and infrastructure to support collaboration, measurement and impact.

Drive continuous improvement through the adoption of best in class operational tools and systems.

Experience

• Proven experience (15+ years) in a senior operations leadership role, ideally in the mission driven sector, or with a private sector background and experience of non profit or philanthropic organisations.
• Demonstrated track record of managing complex organisational functions with a global footprint.
• Experience of realising new business models and revenue model constructs.
• Deep understanding of impact oriented work, with an affinity for the circular economy and sustainability.
• Strong financial acumen, including experience with budgeting, compliance and strategic resource allocation.
• Strong legal mindset, particularly for corporate law; charity law experience a plus.
• Good understanding of technology stack required for a global 160+ organisation to balance best use of spend in terms of insourcing vs. outsourcing and licensing.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal and communication skills with a collaborative approach to problem solving.

Personal Characteristics

• Purpose-driven with a passion for systemic change and market innovation.
• Pragmatic, creative and solutions oriented, and adaptive in a dynamic and evolving context.
• Global outlook, with a strong appreciation of different cultural strengths.
• An inspiring leader who brings clarity, trust and momentum to teams and partners.
• Committed to equity, diversity and inclusion both internally and externally.

What We Offer

• An opportunity to work at the forefront of one of the most critical transitions of our time.
• A collaborative, forward thinking workplace culture.
• Competitive compensation and benefits.
• The chance to work with a globally respected team and network of thought leaders, changemakers and innovators.

Desired starting date

May 2026

Closing date

23rd January 2026

Remuneration package

Competitive within the NGO sector plus generous holiday allowance and benefits package.

Location

This role will be based in the UK. We have offices in Cowes on the Isle of Wight and Somerset House in London and we support flexible and hybrid working models.

To apply, please click on the green icon where you will be asked to upload a CV and covering letter outlining how your experience meets the core requirements of the role.