Volunteer Deputy Head of Operations
(Remote, ~15–20 hrs/month)
Mid-career (approx. 5+ years of experience)
About us
Tessera Institute for Global Affairs (formerly Tessera Research Collective) is an independent research institute working across international affairs and security studies. We bring together researchers, editors, and early-career professionals from diverse backgrounds to produce policy-relevant analysis and build a genuinely inclusive, cross-institutional community.
The role
We’re looking for an experienced Deputy Head of Operations to help ensure the smooth running of a rapidly professionalizing Institute. This is a volunteer leadership role. You’ll provide strategic oversight and day-to-day guidance to a team of roughly ten volunteers working in marketing, social media, strategic communications, and human resources.
This is a deliberately self-directed role. We won’t hand you a task list; instead, you’ll be trusted to define and maintain operational health in line with the Institute’s strategic priorities. It suits someone who understands how research organizations operate and can keep things running smoothly with minimal supervision.
The Deputy Head of Operations reports to the Head of Operations and works closely with the Executive Director on strategic priorities and implementation.
What you’ll do
- Ensure the smooth day-to-day functioning of the Institute’s operational teams
- Provide strategic oversight, guidance, and support to a ~10-person volunteer team across marketing, social media, strategic communications, and HR
- Work closely with the Head of Operations to translate strategic priorities into clear processes and expectations
- Maintain strong coordination between operational teams and the research/editorial side
- Identify operational gaps early and improve systems, workflows, and team culture
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and retention of volunteers
What we’re looking for
- Mid-career experience in operations or management, ideally in a think tank, research institute, university, or similar environment
- Track record leading or coordinating teams (distributed or volunteer experience is a strong plus)
- Strong organizational, judgment, and people-management skills
- Interest in / alignment with our mission in global affairs and security
What you’ll gain
- Senior leadership experience directing a multidisciplinary, cross-cultural team in an international research institute
- Significant autonomy to shape and own an operational remit
- A valuable network across researchers, editors, and practitioners in international affairs and security
- Full flexibility: fully remote with a modest, predictable time commitment
How to apply
Submit your application through LinkedIn. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We’re happy to make reasonable accommodations — just let us know what you need.
If you don’t tick every box but believe you’d be a strong fit, we strongly encourage you to apply.