Reimagining the built environment for people and planet
Buildings shape how we live. They generate nearly 40% of global emissions, use over half of all virgin resources, and define how we live, work, heal, and learn. As cities grow and infrastructure ages, construction and renovation are accelerating. Without targeted action, we lock in emissions, deepen inequality, and weaken resilience.
Yet less than 2% of climate philanthropy targets this space - despite proven solutions and powerful co-benefits. Assemble was created to change that.
Assemble is a global alliance working to make near-zero emission, resilient buildings for all, the new normal by 2030. Uniting bold funders and field leaders, it aims to mobilise $350 million and drive systems change across 15 high-impact markets.
With pooled funding, a shared strategy, and a growing Community of doers and aligned donors, Assemble is bringing coherence to a fragmented space. Guided by a Steering Committee of anchor funders and with the Secretariat now being established, we are seeking a visionary Chief Executive to lead its next phase of scaled impact.
As Chief Executive, you will set Assemble’s strategic direction, lead a global Secretariat, while serving as its primary spokesperson and advocate. You will build high-trust relationships across civil society, philanthropy, government, technical experts, and finance - making the case for why transformation in the built environment is both urgent and possible.
You’ll bring a track record of entrepreneurial leadership, systems thinking, and fundraising success, with the credibility to convene and inspire across sectors and regions. You’ll be at ease leading a lean, fast-paced organisation and building from the ground up.
Above all else, you’ll be driven by purpose, humility, and the power of collaboration. If you’re a values-led leader ready to rewire how the world funds climate action, we’d love to hear from you!
The deadline for applications is July 28th 2025.
The location of the role is flexible, but the Chief Executive must be able to travel to countries across Africa, Asia, Europe and North America, where the alliance supports activity, builds partnerships, and mobilises funding.
A competitive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate. This is a full-time position.
Perrett Laver will conduct an executive search process in parallel with the public advertisement of the role. Longlisted candidates will be invited to interview with Perrett Laver in mid-August, and the Selection Panel will subsequently meet to decide upon a final shortlist for the post in early September following which, interviews with Assemble will take place. If you require any reasonable adjustments to assist you in the selection process, please advise us of these so that we can make appropriate arrangements.
We welcome candidates of all genders and gender identities, nationalities, ethnicities, religions or beliefs, disabilities, ages, and sexual orientations.
To confidentially get in touch about this role, or for advice on your application please email, Ryann Schutt on Ryann.Schutt@perrettlaver.com.
Should you require access to these documents in alternative formats, please contact Freya Coombes on Freya.Coombes@perrettlaver.com.
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