Welcome from Steven Waugh, Chief Operating Officer

Thank you for your interest in joining UNICEF UK.

This is a pivotal time for our organisation. As we look ahead to 2027–2029, we are focused on how we evolve to deliver even greater impact for children, strengthening how we operate, how we partner, and how we make decisions in an increasingly complex world.

The role of General Counsel will play a central part in that journey. As a member of our Strategic Leadership Group, the General Counsel will help shape the organisation’s direction, bringing clear, pragmatic legal and governance insight into our most important decisions. This is not a traditional, advisory-only role; it is about enabling progress. You will help us navigate complexity, balance risk with opportunity, and ensure we operate with integrity, confidence and ambition.

You will lead a broad and influential team spanning legal, governance, compliance and procurement, positioning these functions as strategic enablers of our work.

We are looking for a leader who brings strong judgement, commercial awareness and the confidence to operate at executive and Board level. Someone who can work across boundaries, build trusted relationships, and support colleagues to make sound decisions in a fast-moving and sometimes ambiguous environment.

Just as importantly, we are committed to building an inclusive and diverse organisation. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, and particularly welcome those who can bring different perspectives to strengthen our leadership and decision-making.

This is a unique opportunity to take on a strategic, organisation-wide role in a purpose-driven environment, helping to ensure UNICEF UK is well positioned to deliver its mission and maximise its impact for children.

If this sounds like the challenge you are looking for, we would be delighted to hear from you.

The United Kingdom Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) is a UK registered charity that raises funds for UNICEF’s emergency and development work around the world and advocates for lasting change for children worldwide. UNICEF UK is one of 33 UNICEF national charitable organisations.