Managing Director, IISS-Middle East

Location: Manama, Bahrain
Contract: Fixed-term, 2 years
Hours: Full-time

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is a defence and security think tank that has a deep understanding of regional geopolitics and geo‑economics in a global context. Its international researchers provide best‑in‑class independent and impartial analysis and provide insights on strategic challenges and priorities to governments and the private sector. It is an expert at bringing together national leaders and senior policymakers in foreign policy, defence and security;

promoting dialogue; and facilitating effective and influential bilateral and multilateral consultations. The IISS–Middle East office is internationally staffed and is set to grow and develop substantially under strong leadership. The office is based in a prestigious location in Manama’s Financial Harbour district.

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is seeking to hire a full‑time Managing Director for its Middle East Regional Headquarters in Bahrain. The role reports to the Executive Director and will provide support in the management of the office.

• Relationship Management: engaging with government departments and agencies in Bahrain and the Gulf, as well as with local and regional diplomatic, military and business leaders in support of IISS initiatives.
• Conference Management: taking a strong role in managing preparations for the annual IISS Manama Dialogue summit; ensure the successful organisation of the many other conferences, workshops and seminars that are conducted in Bahrain; manage and negotiate contracts and vendors, lead audience generation, protocol, and operational teams.
• Fundraising: supporting the Executive Director in fundraising for IISS research and conference activity; identify new funding, write proposals and MOUs.
• Corporate Membership: supporting corporate membership initiatives and handling consultancy arrangements as they arise.
• Project & Resource Management: leading regional incorporation and compliance, finance and budgeting control, liaising with local service providers.
• Office Management: managing office operational staff, including conference, IT, maintenance, administrative support and HR matters such as performance management and payroll in liaison with the London-based HR team.

• Demonstrable and relevant work experience with supporting academic qualifications.
• Strong knowledge of the Middle East political landscape, preferably with experience of working in the region.
• Proven management skills leading an international team.
• Excellent communication and negotiating skills with the ability to take on a wide variety of tasks with tact and efficiency.
• Fluency in English (essential) and competency in Arabic (desirable).

• Competitive salary based on skills and experience.
• Full benefits package.

Candidates should submit their applications by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ blue button above and follow the instructions to submit two documents:

• CV.
• Cover letter.

The deadline for receipt of applications is 26 September 2025.

Due to the volume of expected applications, only those selected for interview will be contacted.

Applications requesting another location other than IISS – Middle East, Manama, Bahrain will not be considered.

The IISS is an equal opportunities employer.