The Elders Programme Officer Job in London (£36K–£38K Salary) – Global Policy & Human Rights Career Opportunity

If you are passionate about global justice, human rights, and influencing high-level international policy, this opportunity could be your next big career move. The Elders is currently recruiting a Programme Officer (Cross-Cutting Commitments) to join its London-based team. This is a full-time, permanent role offering a unique chance to work alongside some of the world’s most respected leaders and policy experts.

About The Elders

The Elders was founded in 2007 as an independent group of global leaders working to promote peace, justice, human rights, and a sustainable planet. The organization brings together influential figures from across continents, including former heads of state, Nobel laureates, and global advocates.

The organisation continues a legacy shaped by iconic leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Kofi Annan, and Mary Robinson. Today, it remains deeply engaged in tackling global challenges through both private diplomacy and public advocacy.

Their work leverages access to political leaders and strong ties with civil society to address some of the world’s most pressing issues, while standing in solidarity with vulnerable communities.

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Job Overview

• Position: Programme Officer (Cross-Cutting Commitments)
• Location: London, UK
• Job Type: Full-time, permanent
• Salary: £36,400 – £38,000 per year

This role sits at the heart of the organisation’s mission, supporting programmes focused on global challenges such as climate change, nuclear weapons, pandemics, conflict, and artificial intelligence.

The selected candidate will also play a leading role in integrating key cross-cutting themes, including:

• Human rights
• Gender equality and women in leadership
• Intergenerational dialogue

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Key Responsibilities

Cross-Cutting Leadership & Policy Coordination

As the policy lead on cross-cutting commitments, you will:

• Coordinate programmatic inputs across different thematic areas
• Draft and contribute to high-level policy papers, reports, and briefing materials
• Monitor and report on decisions made by leadership
• Manage consultants and ensure quality outputs

Programme & Policy Support

You will also:

• Conduct research and horizon scanning on global issues
• Draft statements, speeches, and official communications
• Build strategic partnerships with leading international institutions and think tanks
• Support planning processes, board meetings, and reporting
• Provide administrative coordination for meetings and global visits

Technical Expertise on Key Issues

The role requires leadership in:

• Human rights advocacy
• Gender equality and women in leadership
• Youth engagement and intergenerational dialogue

You will contribute to speeches, policy papers, and public-facing content while strengthening networks, particularly in the Global South.

Ideal Candidate Profile

To succeed in this role, candidates should have:

• 3–7 years of experience in international organisations, NGOs, government, or think tanks
• Strong academic grounding in international relations, politics, or development studies
• Proven ability to produce high-quality policy analysis and reports
• Experience working with governments, civil society, and multilateral organisations
• Excellent research, analytical, and writing skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Additionally, candidates should demonstrate:

• A collaborative and flexible working style
• Strong commitment to global justice and the organisation’s mission
• Experience integrating cross-cutting themes into programmes

Working Environment & Benefits

The organisation offers a supportive and flexible work environment with a hybrid working model. Staff are encouraged to balance remote and in-office work based on their needs, with occasional in-person collaboration days.

Benefits Include:

• 10% employer pension contribution
• Optional private medical and dental insurance
• Life assurance (5x annual salary)
• 28 days annual leave plus UK public holidays
• Enhanced parental leave

The office is centrally located in London, providing a modern and accessible workspace.

Application Process

To apply, candidates must submit the following via email:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
2. Supporting Statement (max 2 pages) covering:
   • Your suitability for the role
   • Experience with cross-cutting issues
   • Examples of coordination and teamwork

Applicants must also confirm their right to work in the UK.

Important Dates:

• Application Deadline: 20 April (08:00 AM UK time)
• First Interviews: 27 April
• Second Interviews: 30 April (in person)

Why This Role Matters

Working with this organisation is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to contribute to meaningful global change. From advocating for climate justice to strengthening international cooperation, your work will directly support efforts to build a fairer and more peaceful world.

This role is ideal for professionals who want to operate at the intersection of policy, advocacy, and global leadership, while gaining exposure to high-level diplomacy and decision-making.

Final Thoughts

The Programme Officer position is a rare opportunity to join a globally respected organization founded on values of integrity, courage, and collaboration. With exposure to influential leaders and pressing global issues, this role offers both professional growth and the chance to make a real impact.

If you are driven by purpose and ready to contribute to global solutions, this could be the perfect next step in your career.