School for Thinktankers 2027 Opens Applications: Global Executive Leadership Programme for Think Tank Professionals in Barcelona @Unknown

Applications are now open for the School for Thinktankers 2027, the flagship executive learning programme organised by On Think Tanks for mid- to senior-level professionals working at the intersection of evidence, research, and public policy.

Designed as a transformative year-long leadership journey, the programme brings together think tank professionals from around the world to strengthen leadership skills, enhance strategic thinking, and build lasting international networks that support evidence-informed policymaking.

The programme combines online learning, collaborative engagement, and an immersive in-person learning experience in Barcelona, Spain, scheduled for 1–5 February 2027.

For professionals working in research institutions, policy organisations, civil society, and think tanks, the School for Thinktankers offers a unique opportunity to develop leadership capabilities while joining a global community of policy leaders.

About the School for Thinktankers

The School for Thinktankers is the flagship executive education programme developed by On Think Tanks, an organisation dedicated to supporting think tanks and evidence-informed policymaking worldwide.

Unlike traditional short-term training courses, the School for Thinktankers is designed as a comprehensive leadership development experience that extends over an entire year.

Participants engage in structured online learning before attending an intensive residential programme in Barcelona. Following the in-person session, participants continue their learning journey through ongoing collaboration, mentoring, and professional networking.

The programme is specifically designed to strengthen the leadership capacity of professionals responsible for managing research organisations and influencing public policy.

Why the Programme Matters

In today’s rapidly changing policy environment, producing high-quality research alone is no longer enough.

Successful think tanks must also demonstrate:

• Strong institutional leadership
• Strategic communication
• Financial sustainability
• Policy influence
• Organisational resilience
• Effective stakeholder engagement

The School for Thinktankers helps participants develop these essential leadership competencies while learning from experienced practitioners and peers from diverse global contexts.

What Participants Will Learn

Throughout the programme, participants strengthen their knowledge and practical skills in several key areas.

These include:

• Leadership development
• Strategic planning
• Organisational management
• Evidence-informed policymaking
• Institutional sustainability
• Collaboration and partnerships
• Communication and influence
• Managing organisational change
• Building resilient research institutions
• Professional networking

The programme emphasises practical leadership skills that participants can immediately apply within their organisations.

Programme Structure

The School for Thinktankers follows a blended learning model that combines virtual engagement with face-to-face collaboration.

Online Learning

Participants begin with structured online learning sessions that introduce key concepts, facilitate peer interaction, and prepare them for the in-person programme.

Immersive Learning Week in Barcelona

A major highlight of the programme is the intensive residential learning week in Barcelona, Spain, taking place from:

1–5 February 2027

During this period, participants engage in:

• Interactive workshops
• Leadership exercises
• Strategy discussions
• Case studies
• Peer learning sessions
• Expert-led discussions
• Collaborative problem-solving

The residential experience also provides valuable networking opportunities with professionals from around the world.

Continued Professional Development

Following the Barcelona programme, participants remain connected through continued learning activities, knowledge exchange, and engagement with the wider School for Thinktankers alumni community.

This extended learning model ensures that participants continue applying and refining their leadership skills long after the in-person programme concludes.

Who Should Apply?

The School for Thinktankers is designed for mid- to senior-level professionals working at the intersection of research, evidence, and public policy.

Suitable applicants include professionals working in:

• Think tanks
• Research institutes
• Policy organisations
• Civil society organisations
• Government policy units
• Universities
• International development organisations
• Advocacy organisations

The programme is particularly valuable for individuals responsible for leading teams, managing research institutions, influencing policy, or strengthening organisational strategy.

Join a Global Community of Policy Leaders

Over the past ten editions, the School for Thinktankers has built an impressive international network.

The programme has welcomed:

• More than 300 professionals
• Participants from over 70 countries

This diverse community continues to collaborate, exchange ideas, and support one another in strengthening evidence-informed policymaking across different regions.

The programme provides not only world-class leadership training but also access to an international network of experienced policy professionals and institutional leaders.

Why You Should Apply

Professionals working in research and policy increasingly require leadership skills that extend beyond technical expertise.

The School for Thinktankers offers participants the opportunity to:

• Develop executive leadership capabilities
• Learn from experienced global practitioners
• Strengthen organisational effectiveness
• Build international partnerships
• Expand professional networks
• Enhance strategic decision-making
• Improve policy influence
• Join a respected global alumni community

Whether you lead a national think tank, manage research programmes, or support evidence-informed policymaking, the programme provides valuable tools for advancing both personal and organisational impact.

Programme Location

Barcelona, Spain

Important Dates

Immersive Learning Week:
1–5 February 2027

Applications for the School for Thinktankers 2027 are now open.

Interested professionals are encouraged to prepare their applications early and review eligibility requirements through the official programme information page.

Final Thoughts

The School for Thinktankers has established itself as one of the world’s leading executive learning programmes for professionals working at the intersection of research and public policy.

By combining leadership development, international collaboration, strategic learning, and long-term professional engagement, the programme equips participants with the knowledge and networks needed to strengthen think tanks and improve evidence-informed decision-making globally.

For professionals committed to advancing research impact and public policy, the School for Thinktankers 2027 represents an exceptional opportunity to invest in leadership growth while becoming part of an influential international community.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.

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