Head of Program Economy and Industry (m/w/d)

Leadership and management

• Oversee the work of the Economy and Industry team, guiding and mentoring currently four (Senior/Lead) Analysts, promoting collaboration across MERICS teams, with fellows and external partners.
• Contribute to shaping MERICS’s strategic agenda and organizational culture as part of the institute’s Management Circle.
• Supervise and ensure quality control for a range of research outputs, coordinating closely with colleagues, funders and partners.
• Design and develop the fundraising strategy for your team, nurturing long-term relationships with funders and partners.

Outreach

• Represent MERICS in high-level engagements with decision-makers in business, politics, media and civil society.
• Expand and cultivate networks with key stakeholders, peers, media and institutional partners across Europe and beyond.
• Build your public profile as an expert on China’s economic policy, broadening your expertise into adjacent fields of strategic relevance.
• Contribute to MERICS media work as an interview partner and an author of op-eds and commentary and present your research at conferences, workshops and briefings.

Requirements

• You bring in-depth and wide-ranging knowledge of China’s economic development, institutions, regulatory environment and policymaking, and are experienced in working with original-language sources.
• Your academic background includes a graduate degree in economics or China studies with a strong focus on China’s economy, complemented by experience in leading quantitative, data-driven research.
• Your command of English is at least C1 or at native speaker level and you have a good knowledge of Chinese (HSK 4 or equivalent); a good command of German is desirable, knowledge of another European language is an advantage.
• You offer several years of relevant professional experience, ideally including time spent in China and roles involving research, policy advice, team leadership and fundraising.
• Your track record demonstrates the ability to design, lead and publish high-quality research on China-related economic and policy issues.
• You are experienced in securing external funding for research initiatives and managing project-based collaboration with funders and partners.
• You communicate effectively across formats, with experience in public speaking, media work and translating complex research into accessible content for both expert and non-expert audiences.
• You are adaptable, collaborative and proactive, willing to contribute beyond your core area of expertise and engage with colleagues across the institute.

Why us?

MERICS offers a flexible and stimulating work environment in a dynamic, multi-disciplinary and international team. The position will be based either in Berlin or Brussels, with a competitive salary (commensurate with experience and qualifications) and excellent benefits.

This is a full-time position.You will be hired initially on a two-year contract, with a probationary period of six months. We intend to make this a long-term role, subject to conditions.

At MERICS, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic or social origin, religion, disability, age, or sexual orientation. We particularly encourage applications from women and individuals with a migration background. Applicants with disabilities who meet the essential qualifications will be given preference in accordance with applicable laws.

How to apply

If you are interested in becoming part of our team, please submit your application by November 1, 2026. including your CV, a motivation letter, addressed to MERICS Executive Director Dr. Mikko Huotari, and contact information of two referees.