GÉANT is a unique, not-for-profit organisation at the very heart of research and education networking. With a diverse team of 160 staff members from approximately 40 cultures, located in Amsterdam and Cambridge, GÉANT has a truly global outlook. Together with its European membership and global partners, GÉANT serves over 50 million users globally and continues to push the boundaries of research and education networking. As a leader in Europe and beyond, GÉANT harnesses the power of a truly collaborative, talented, and democratic community to deliver innovative digital solutions and services for scientists, academics, and students. GÉANT facilitates seamless connectivity and collaboration, fostering the exchange of ideas and resources across continents.

Profile & Requirements

GÉANT is seeking a visionary and effective leader to serve as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Someone who is adept at navigating complex, multicultural, and technical environments with a proven track record of leading similar organisations. The CEO will have dual responsibility for  overseeing  day-to-day operations and guiding the long-term strategic direction of the organisation. In this role, the CEO will lead the executive management team and work closely with the Board to maintain and enhance GÉANT’s relevance to its members and the broader community it serves. We are looking for a leader who not only has demonstrated success in developing and leading a dynamic organisation but also fosters a high-performing team while nurturing an inclusive and supportive work environment.

The successful candidate will be able to skilfully build consensus and align the organisation with the nuanced needs of our diverse community. The ability to build and maintain trusting relationships will be key to fostering a supportive and innovative organisational culture. Familiarity with the European Research & Education community, including its political and funding landscapes, is essential, as this knowledge will be crucial in navigating the specific challenges and opportunities in this sector. The CEO will be politically astute, capable of thriving under both time and political pressures, and will exemplify resilience and integrity. Outstanding communication abilities are essential, with proficiency in English and at least one other European language to effectively manage and strengthen relationships with stakeholders both within Europe and internationally.

Main Responsibilities

The CEO’s responsibilities encompass upholding and advancing GÉANT’s mission, strategies, and policies, including evaluating the organisation's effectiveness, aligning it's operations with community needs, and leading strategic planning to address imminent challenges and opportunities. Additionally, the CEO will actively seek funding opportunities, address organisational challenges with creative solutions, and recommend policy updates necessary for GÉANT's future business requirements.

In shaping the organisational culture, the CEO will be deeply involved in team development and fostering an inclusive work environment. This responsibility extends to managing all aspects of GÉANT’s operations and promoting a culture where each team member feels valued and empowered.

As GÉANT’s principal ambassador, the CEO will enhance the organisation's visibility and strengthen it's international relationships. This involves ensuring active participation in collaborative projects and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. The CEO will also manage the organisation's governance, ensuring adherence to legal and regulatory standards, aligning operations with strategic goals, and supporting the Board and General Assembly to fulfil their duties effectively.

The CEO will be based in GÉANT’s Amsterdam office, in the Netherlands.

Appointment Process and How to Apply

An executive search exercise is being undertaken by Perrett Laver to assist the Recruitment Committee in identifying the widest possible field of qualified candidates and assisting in the assessment of candidates against the requirements for the role.

Informal enquiries and questions can be directed to Tiziano Sartor on +31 202 404 370 or by emailing tiziano.sartor@perrettlaver.com. Applications can be uploaded at https://candidates.perrettlaver.com/vacancies/, quoting reference number 7301. The closing date for applications is at 9 am CEST on Monday 27th May.

Applications should consist of a cover letter addressing suitability against the person specification and a full curriculum vitae.

Applications will be considered by the Recruitment Committee in early June. Perrett Laver will conduct preliminary discussions with longlisted candidates in mid-June, and the Committee will then meet in early July to decide on a shortlist of candidates. These individuals will subsequently be invited for formal interviews in mid-July. Selection of and negotiations with the preferred candidate will take place thereafter.

Please note the following dates for the interview rounds on which successful candidates would be expected to be available:

First Round Interviews: Monday 8th July (taking place online)

Second Round Interviews: Tuesday 16th July (taking place in-person in Amsterdam)

A psychometric assessment will be part of the procedure.

As defined under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Perrett Laver is a Data Controller and a Data Processor, and our legal basis for processing your personal data is ‘Legitimate Interest’. For more information about this, your rights, and our approach to Data Protection and Privacy, please visit our website https://www.perrettlaver.com/privacy-statement/

For more information on how GÉANT collects, uses, and shares applicant data for recruitment, please visit the Candidate Privacy Notice.