Defence Analyst, IISS Advisory, London

Hours: Full-time

Contract: Permanent

Location: London

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 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.

IISS Advisory is seeking a Defence Analyst, to expand its strategic advisory offering to the global defence sector. This role sits at the intersection of defence and security research, consulting and client engagement. The Defence Analyst will be required to draw on the research output of the IISS's Defence and Military Analysis Programme (DMAP), as well as conduct original research on a range of defence themes and topics to prepare commercially relevant briefings and advice for clients working in and with the defence sector. The Analyst will have a leading role in defence advisory engagements, designing and helping to deliver bespoke advisory projects for defence sector clients, from scoping to execution.

Responsibilities:

• Develop a deep understanding of current and prospective IISS Advisory client interests, including product portfolios, markets and business development strategies.
• Collaborate with the IISS's research teams to identify commercially relevant research with significance to Advisory clients.
• Prepare and assist in the delivery of advisory briefings and short reports on military and defence topics, tailored to IISS Advisory clients' needs and strategic priorities. Such topics may include trends in military innovation, defence capability gaps, market opportunities, acquisition and procurement, and global technological competition.
• Engage with defence departments (with a focus on Europe to develop an understanding of capabilities, requirements, and procurement opportunities and processes).
• Liaise with government stakeholders to understand regulatory requirements, including licensing, export controls and end-user certificates, for defence and dual-use technologies.
• Develop and maintain the IISS Advisory Services' network of defence stakeholders, including defence financiers and investors (VCs, PE and banks), industry start-ups and innovators.
• Represent the IISS Defence Advisory Services at industry conferences as required.

Requirements:

• Experience working in or closely with defence ministries, armed forces, defence consulting, military research, or government advisory roles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate complex technical issues into commercial insights.
• Excellent writing and communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• A degree in security studies, international relations, or related fields is desirable.

Application:

Candidates should submit their applications by clicking the "Apply Now" blue button and following the instructions to submit two documents:

• a cover letter outlining what skills and experience you can bring to the role.
• a full Curriculum Vitae.

The deadline for receipt of applications is 12 January 2026.

Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we will be unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

The IISS is an equal opportunities employer.