The Oxford Climate Leadership Research Centre is recruiting a cohort of influential leaders from politics, business and sport who want to play a bigger role in addressing climate change. Through membership, leaders will explore how they can use their influence, platforms and networks to inspire climate action, normalise low-carbon behaviours, and shape decisions across politics, business and everyday life.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Who should apply?
We are currently recruiting:
Political leaders
Current and former politicians, parliamentarians, local authority leaders, and others with significant influence in public and political life.
Business executives
Senior executives from large organisations, including Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), C-suite executives, board members and executive directors. We are primarily seeking leaders from organisations with 250 or more employees, or individuals with equivalent influence through major business networks or industry organisations. We are exclusively seeking leaders from organisations with 250 or more employees.
Sports leaders
Professional athletes, retired athletes with significant public influence, and selected semi-professional athletes with substantial reach or influence within their sport.
Who are we looking for?
Successful applicants are likely to demonstrate some combination of:
- A significant leadership role within politics, business or sport.
- The ability to influence others through their position, profile or networks.
- A demonstrable interest in climate change, sustainability, or environmental issues (experience or expertise is not required).
- A willingness to learn, share experiences, and engage with other leaders.
- An openness to exploring how leadership can contribute to climate action.
As places are limited, priority will be given to applicants with substantial leadership responsibilities, significant public reach, or the capacity to influence large audiences and communities.
We are committed to building a diverse community of leaders and welcome applications from people of different backgrounds, countries, perspectives and experiences.
Please note that membership is offered through a competitive application process.
Why apply?
Members of the Oxford Climate Leadership Research Centre gain access to a growing programme of leadership development, research, networking and learning opportunities focused on climate leadership.
Leadership development
Members will have the opportunity to participate in a specialist programme designed to help leaders communicate effectively about climate change and lead by example.
Current opportunities include:
Climate Leadership Coaching
A six-session group coaching programme delivered by Climate Change Coaches, bringing together leaders from different sectors to explore climate leadership, build confidence and learn from peers.
Storytelling for Climate Leadership
A practical workshop led by Josh Ettinger, climate change communication expert, exploring how storytelling can help leaders engage audiences and inspire action.
Climate Communication Briefings
Expert-led workshops and briefings from Climate Outreach, one of the world’s leading climate communication organisations, helping leaders understand how to communicate climate issues effectively with different audiences.
Networking and events
Members will be invited to talks, workshops, discussions and networking events with other leaders, researchers and practitioners working on climate leadership.
Research and insights
Members will gain early access to emerging research, evidence and insights from the Oxford Climate Leadership Research Centre, helping them stay informed about developments in climate leadership and public engagement.
Affiliation
Members may identify themselves as members of the Oxford Climate Leadership Research Centre and, where appropriate, be featured on the Centre’s website and communications.
What does membership involve?
The Oxford Climate Leadership Research Centre is both a leadership community and a research programme.
All members are expected to:
- Participate in at least one Centre-supported leadership development programme.
- Contribute to research activities that help us understand climate leadership and its impacts.
Research participation may include surveys, interviews, feedback sessions and, where relevant, analysis of public communications such as social media activity. All research will be conducted in accordance with University of Oxford ethical and data protection requirements.
- Engage constructively with other members and Centre activities where possible.
We recognise that members have demanding professional commitments. Participation requirements are designed to be manageable and flexible.
Apply here
Eligibility
The Oxford Climate Leadership Centre is currently recruiting leaders from politics, business and sport.
Applications must be from any of these categories:
- National and regional political leaders, parliamentarians and former politicians.
- Senior executives from large organisations (typically 250+ employees), including CEOs, C-suite executives, board members and executive directors. We also welcome leaders of major business networks and professional organisations.
- Professional, retired and nationally recognised athletes with significant reach.
Please note: We are not currently recruiting founders, owners or directors of small organisations (businesses, charities or other enteprises) unless they also hold a wider leadership role with substantial influence beyond their own organisation.
Because places are limited, priority will be given to applicants with substantial leadership responsibilities and the ability to influence organisations, communities or public audiences.
If you are unsure whether you meet our current eligibility criteria, please feel free to contact the team by email.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply?
We are currently recruiting leaders from politics, business and sport. Priority is given to individuals with significant leadership responsibilities, public influence, or the ability to influence organisations, communities or audiences.
Do I need to be a climate expert?
No. We welcome applications from people with a wide range of experience and perspectives. An interest in climate leadership is more important than existing expertise.
Do I need to be based in the United Kingdom?
No. We welcome applications from leaders based anywhere in the world. However, as the Centre’s activities, training programmes and research are currently delivered in English, applicants should be comfortable participating in discussions and completing research activities in English.
Is membership free?
Yes. There is no fee to apply or participate in Centre activities.
What are the benefits of joining?
Members gain access to leadership development opportunities, workshops, coaching programmes, networking events, research insights and a community of leaders interested in climate leadership. We are also exploring opportunities to recognise participation through certificates and other forms of professional recognition. Further details will be shared with successful applicants.
What is expected of members?
Members are expected to participate in at least one Centre-supported leadership development activity and to contribute to associated research activities. Participation requirements are designed to be manageable and flexible.
What kinds of research activities are involved?
Research participation may include surveys, interviews, focus groups, feedback sessions, and analysis of public communications such as social media activity. Full details will always be provided in advance and participation will be subject to University of Oxford ethical and data protection requirements.
How much time will membership require?
This varies depending on the activities you choose to participate in. Most activities are designed to fit around busy professional schedules and most are delivered online.
Can I participate remotely?
Yes. Most Centre activities are delivered online, enabling leaders from different countries and sectors to participate.
How long does membership last?
Membership is initially offered for the duration of the Oxford Climate Leadership Research Centre’s current programme of activity, which is funded until 2030. We hope to continue building the Centre beyond this period and members who remain engaged with the Centre’s aims and activities may be invited to continue their involvement in future phases.
Will my details appear on the Centre website?
Only with your permission. Members may be invited to provide a short biography and photograph for inclusion on the Centre website.
What happens after I apply?
Applications are reviewed by the Centre team. We aim to inform applicants of the outcome within one month of receiving a completed application.
What if I am not selected?
Because places are limited, we are unable to accept every application. Unsuccessful applicants will be invited to join our mailing list to receive updates about the Centre and future opportunities to get involved.
I am not sure whether I meet the eligibility criteria. Should I still apply?
If you are unsure, we encourage you to contact the Centre team before submitting an application.