Chief Executive Officer

Korn Ferry has partnered with our client, Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia, on their search for the role, Chief Executive Officer.

Why this role?

• Shape Australia’s policy and research agenda as CEO of a national peak body
• Deliver a clear and ambitious strategy with strong Board and Fellowship support
• Build a long-term, diversified, and sustainable funding model
• Contribute to a mission of national significance: elevating social science for the benefit of Australia

The Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia is seeking a Chief Executive Officer of a nationally significant institution at a time when social science has never been more critical to Australia’s prosperity, resilience, and policy direction.

This is a rare opportunity to partner with the President and Board to deliver the Academy’s 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, elevate its national influence, and strengthen its impact across research, government, and public domains.

About the Academy

The Academy is an independent, not-for-profit organisation and one of Australia’s five learned academies, representing 700+ leading Fellows across the social sciences.

It plays a unique role in:

• Bringing rigorous, independent research into national policy debates
• Supporting excellence and innovation across the research ecosystem
• Strengthening public trust in evidence and expertise
• Connecting Australia to global research networks

The role

Reporting to the President, the CEO will:

• Lead delivery of the Academy’s Advise, Support, and Engage strategic pillars
• Act as a senior broker across government, academia, and the broader policy ecosystem
• Drive revenue diversification and philanthropy, including establishing a formal giving program
• Manage a high-performing National Office team (~9 FTE)
• Build trusted relationships with senior officials, parliamentarians, and sector leaders

About you

You are a strategic and outward-facing leader who can operate confidently across policy, research and public domains.

You will bring

• Significant senior executive leadership experience
• Strong government and stakeholder engagement capability
• Commercial and/or philanthropic acumen
• Experience translating strategy into delivery
• Outstanding communication and relationship-building skills
• A genuine interest in the role of social science in public policy and national outcomes

Experience in research, higher education, public administration or a related field will be highly regarded.

How to apply

For a confidential discussion or to apply, please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

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Applications close: 21 June 2026

All enquiries will be treated with strict confidence.

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