Secretary general
Overview
The Secretary General is the chief executive and legal representative of the association. This role combines strategic leadership, financial stewardship, and operational management, with a strong focus on stakeholder engagement, policy alignment, and membership growth.
The Association
Lead the implementation of the association’s strategic and operational plan in line with EU digital and industrial policies. Represent the association in high-level dialogues with the European Commission, industry leaders, and research institutions. Develop and deliver the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) and related position papers for Virtual Worlds. Establish the association as a living lab showcasing how Virtual Worlds can transform collaboration, governance, and innovation. Support the Board of Directors and General Assembly, ensuring effective governance, operations, and legal compliance. Manage finances transparently, oversee audits and procurement, and ensure responsible use of funds. Grow and engage a diverse membership community across academia, SMEs, and large enterprises through collaborative initiatives and events. Lead communication and outreach activities, organize flagship events, and promote diversity and inclusion across all programs.
Conditions
The position offers full flexibility to work from anywhere within the European Union. Occasional travel to Brussels and other European locations will be required, estimated at up to 30% of working time, for board meetings, stakeholder events, and EU engagements. The role will initially be part-time (three days per week, equivalent to 60% FTE) with the intention to evolve into a full-time position within the first three years, depending on the association’s growth and available funding.
Responsibilities
- Lead the implementation of the association’s strategic and operational plan in line with EU digital and industrial policies.
- Represent the association in high-level dialogues with the European Commission, industry leaders, and research institutions.
- Develop and deliver the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) and related position papers for Virtual Worlds.
- Establish the association as a living lab showcasing how Virtual Worlds can transform collaboration, governance, and innovation.
- Support the Board of Directors and General Assembly, ensuring effective governance, operations, and legal compliance.
- Manage finances transparently, oversee audits and procurement, and ensure responsible use of funds.
- Grow and engage a diverse membership community across academia, SMEs, and large enterprises through collaborative initiatives and events.
- Lead communication and outreach activities, organize flagship events, and promote diversity and inclusion across all programs.
Profile
- Citizen of the European Union with an advanced degree in a relevant field (e.g., digital technologies, public policy, EU affairs, business).
- At least 5 years of experience in relevant management roles within EU-funded initiatives, industry research, industry associations, or research organizations.
- Solid understanding of EU Research & Innovation policy, Horizon Europe, and co-programmed partnerships. Proven ability to lead initiatives, manage stakeholders, and ensure transparent financial and organizational operations.
- Strong communication and leadership skills, with fluency in English (other EU languages an asset).
- Hands-on approach with experience in outreach, dissemination, or event organization.
- Passionate about the transformative potential of Virtual Worlds and committed to diversity, collaboration, and excellence.
Statement
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organization. We strongly encourage women and candidates from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality and evaluated solely on merit.