Director of International Research

About the Institute for Economics & Peace

The Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP) is an internationally respected think tank that uses evidence-based methods to study peace and assess its economic importance. Its research portfolio includes globally recognised publications such as the Global Peace Index and the Global Terrorism Index, along with many other influential studies on the economic, social, and political factors that shape peace and conflict. IEP’s work reaches audiences at massive scale, with its reports downloaded more than a million times annually and media coverage measured in the billions.

With its head office in Sydney and additional offices in New York City, The Hague, Manila, and Nairobi, IEP partners widely with multilateral organisations, governments, NGOs, and development agencies across the world. The organisation is now looking for an exceptional Director of International Research to guide the next stage of its global research, partnerships, and influence.

The Role

This senior leadership position is based in Sydney and carries responsibility for defining and executing IEP’s international research direction while also broadening its global reach and advisory capacity. Working in close partnership with the executive leadership team, you will lead a high-performing research function, generate new research and advisory prospects, and represent IEP on the global stage through presentations, stakeholder engagement, media appearances, and major report releases.

The position brings together thought leadership, operational oversight, and commercial acumen. The person in this role will help place IEP at the centre of international policy conversations on peace and conflict, resilience, development, and geopolitical risk.

You will also help advance fresh approaches to measuring peace and resilience, deepen the influence of IEP’s publications, and grow long-term partnerships with governments, multilaterals, and other key stakeholders. Relocation assistance is available for the right person.

Key Responsibilities

• Set the direction for IEP’s research agenda and ensure delivery of a strong, mission-focused research program
• Guide the creation and publication of high-impact global reports while encouraging methodological progress
• Lead, coach, and support a research team of 10 professionals working across multiple international projects
• Oversee project delivery, control budgets, and prepare profit and loss statements for assigned work
• Spot and pursue new opportunities in research, advisory services, and partnerships
• Drive business growth through pipeline management and revenue generation
• Handle senior client and stakeholder relationships, including negotiations, project execution, budgeting, financial reporting, and risk oversight
• Recruit talent, build team capability, and support ongoing professional development
• Collaborate with other IEP directors to increase the organisation’s reach, influence, and overall impact

About You

You are a strategically minded and highly ambitious leader with expertise in one or more of these areas: economics, international relations, geopolitics, statistics or quantitative analysis, peace and conflict studies, or global policy. You have a strong background in leading major research programs and managing complex international work.

You bring together strong analytical thinking, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. You are also entrepreneurial, flexible, and driven by the chance to influence global conversations and policy outcomes through innovative research, respected publications, and strategic collaborations.

Essential Experience

• Leadership experience at senior level within a think tank, university, government agency, international organisation, or a similar institution
• Depth of knowledge in international relations, economics, geopolitics, public policy, or a closely related field
• A strong record of producing research that has had clear policy influence or international reach
• Experience leading research teams and coordinating multiple projects at the same time
• Proven ability to grow business, expand advisory work, develop partnerships, or secure funding

Why Join IEP?

• Lead research that influences how governments, multilateral bodies, and development organisations understand peace and resilience
• Contribute to methodological innovation at one of the world’s leading peace-focused think tanks
• Develop strategic relationships with influential organisations across the globe and help create measurable real-world change
• Play a part in reshaping how peace, resilience, and societal progress are assessed and understood worldwide