The UK Atomic Energy Authority, the world's largest fusion organisation and global leader in fusion R&D, seeks an exceptional Chief Executive Officer following Professor Sir Ian Chapman's appointment as Chief Executive of UK Research and Innovation. With 2,600 staff, an annual turnover of circa £470 million, and partnerships with companies across the Fusion Ecosystem and with over 30 universities, UKAEA stands at the forefront of the UK Government’s Fusion Strategy.

The CEO will lead strategic developments to maintain the UK's world-leading position in fusion, securing funding from national and international stakeholders while driving dynamic research and technology transfer programmes and delivery. This role encompasses managing UKAEA's extensive campuses across four sites covering over 1,000 acres, providing effective leadership to all major programmes, and serving as the public face of the organisation in engaging with government, industry, and academic partners globally.

This represents an opportunity to lead cutting-edge research that will transform global energy production while shaping the future of sustainable energy technology.

The successful candidate will offer proven leadership experience in technology-related and science-driven business with strong commercial acumen, exceptional communication and influencing skills, and the ability to inspire large, complex teams. Strategic credibility and experience partnering with diverse stakeholder groups across multiple sectors are crucial. Ideally, candidates will have expertise in fusion and international experience in stakeholder management across government, industry, and academia.

How to Apply

The UK Atomic Energy Authority has engaged the services of Perrett Laver to assist with the appointment process for the Chief Executive Officer. The closing date for applications is 09.00 GMT on Friday 7th November 2025. For more information, please visit the Perrett Laver website at https://plusportal.perrettlaver.com/, quoting reference 7927.

Application is by submission of a curriculum vitae and a covering letter of application, addressing the job description and person specification and including suitable daytime and evening telephone contact details. If you wish to discuss this role further in confidence, please contact Lucy Roper on [email protected].

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