Sexual Harassment Lead

SEXUAL HARASSMENT LEAD BRITISH COUNCIL Location: Any British Council Office Globally Contract Type: One Year Fixed Term Contract Pay Grade: 8 Application Closing Date: 15 July 2026 at 21:59 UK Time ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY British Council is seeking an experienced Sexual Harassment Lead to serve as the organisation's subject matter expert in preventing and responding to sexual harassment. This is a pivotal role that will shape how the organisation embeds a culture of safety, respect, and accountability across all levels. You will join the Safeguarding Team and work with the sexual harassment working group to strengthen the organisation's response in line with the amended Equality Act 2010 and its new proactive duty to prevent harassment. Your work will be strategic, impactful, and deeply collaborative, touching every corner of the organisation. WHAT YOU'LL DO Your core responsibilities will span five key areas: Strategic Leadership and Compliance: Lead the organisation's sexual harassment prevention and response programme, ensuring full alignment with the amended Equality Act 2010 and regulatory standards. You will drive the implementation of the Seven-Point Action Plan, guide the organisation through the Five-Stage Maturity Model, and provide expert advice to senior leaders, HR teams, and operational departments on best practice and risk management. Policy, Frameworks and Governance: Review, update and embed sexual harassment policies, procedures, and guidance that reflect legal requirements and sector best practice. You will support the development of governance structures that enable transparent reporting and survivor-centred, trauma-informed approaches aligned with safeguarding principles. Data, Insight and Performance: Develop and implement key performance indicators and measures to track progress and identify risk. You will lead the analysis of incident data, reporting trends, and areas requiring targeted intervention to inform strategic decision-making. Culture Change, Awareness and Training: Design and deliver awareness campaigns, briefing sessions, and training programmes for staff, volunteers, and leaders. You will embed organisational priorities into everyday practice, promote psychological safety and zero tolerance for harassment, and assist in designing Sexual Harassment and Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEAH) training models. Stakeholder Engagement and Continuous Improvement: Work collaboratively with safeguarding managers, HR, equality and diversity teams, operational departments, staff networks, and external partners. You will identify emerging risks and legislative changes, facilitate consultations, and ensure the organisation remains proactive and fit for purpose. WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR Essential Attributes: You bring integrity and discretion when handling sensitive matters, demonstrated collaborative leadership that brings people through change, and the courage to challenge and advocate for safe, respectful environments. You possess strong empathy and emotional intelligence, particularly when engaging with those affected by harassment. You combine strategic thinking with the ability to deliver practical solutions. Specialist Knowledge and Skills: You have in-depth understanding of the Equality Act 2010, including recent amendments, safeguarding principles, and harassment prevention. You are familiar with maturity models, organisational development, and continuous improvement frameworks. You excel at translating complex legislation and policy into practical, accessible guidance for diverse audiences. Your communication, influencing, and relationship-building skills are excellent, supported by strong analytical abilities to interpret data and produce meaningful insights. You manage sensitive issues with discretion, professionalism, and a trauma-informed approach. Experience: You have professional experience in public sector, education, health, or other regulated environments. Your background demonstrates proven expertise in safeguarding, harassment prevention, or related organisational development work. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENT You must have the legal right to work in one of the British Council's office-based countries at the time of application. Please note that British Council is unable to support visa sponsorship or relocation costs for this position. British Council: A connected and trusted UK in a more connected and trusted world.