BirdLife International is hiring: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Overview

BirdLife International is seeking an exceptional leader to serve as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO). This strategic role involves providing vision and oversight for the effective management of our global team and operations, ensuring the organisation’s long-term sustainability and impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage BirdLife’s four operational teams: Human Resources, Finance, Information Technology, and Legal & Governance
• Oversee the operational management of BirdLife’s offices worldwide, fostering collaboration and system optimisation
• Provide strategic oversight of core corporate services, including financial stewardship, governance, and risk management
• Lead business planning, budgeting, performance reporting, and ensure compliance with statutory and donor requirements
• Support informed decision-making and organisational change initiatives in partnership with the CEO, Council, and senior leadership
• Oversee legal, compliance, IT, and enterprise systems to enable efficient global operations

Requirements

• Proven strategic leadership and operational management experience within complex, international organisations
• Strong financial credentials and experience in financial stewardship
• Knowledge of the UK charity operating environment is preferable
• Experience managing functions such as IT, risk, compliance, and finance in not-for-profit organisations
• Ability to lead and motivate diverse, multidisciplinary, and multicultural teams through periods of change
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships and inspire confidence
• Fluency in English is essential; additional languages are a plus
• Willingness to undertake occasional international travel

Benefits

Competitive remuneration package, relocation support available for the right candidate.

Location

Cambridge, UK or Nairobi, Kenya

How to Apply

If you are passionate about developing organisations to have a meaningful global conservation impact, we invite you to apply via the link below:

BirdLife International is partnering with Perrett Laver executive search agency for this appointment.

Deadline

Monday, 9 March 2026, 09:00 GMT