ECOS Board: Call for Expression of Interest
ECOS is seeking suitably qualified candidates, both independents and from within our membership, to join our governance and contribute to the strategic direction and governance of ECOS. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced leader to play a key role in guiding our vision and mission, and strategic decision-making, as well as drive positive environmental impact across the globe, while navigating a complex and evolving geopolitical landscape. Apply before 28 February 2026!
We are looking for suitably qualified candidates (independents and member representatives) aligned with our vision, mission and values. Candidates will have professional experience of, for example, Board governance, environmental NGOs, philanthropy, advisory, standardisation, policy & politics, international organisations.
Your responsibilities
- Set the strategic direction: maintain the vision, mission, and strategic direction, in particular agreeing and overseeing the implementation of the ECOS Strategic Plan 2025-2030
- Policy & advocacy: monitor the implementation of the strategy and major policies and programmes, including the annual work programme
- Strategic decision-making: act in the best interest of ECOS, making balanced and adequately informed decisions, and applying a long-term as well as a short-term perspective
- Resources: oversee the finances of ECOS responsibly, approving budgets and audit reports, and monitoring budget execution
- Risk mitigation: ensure that ECOS is addressing risks appropriately, and is taking the remedial action needed
- Compliance: ensure that the organisation complies with its Articles of Association, Belgian law, and any other relevant legislation
- Leadership: act as the Executive Director’s line management, appoint, support, and challenge the Executive Director, ensuring they have all the resources needed to lead effectively
What we are looking for
We are seeking candidates who are aligned with, have an understanding of, and commitment to, the ECOS vision, mission, values and Strategy.
Essential experience & skills:
- Senior leadership experience in governance, sustainability, standardisation, philanthropy, policy or a related field
- Strong understanding of environmental challenges, particularly in Europe, Africa and at the global level
- Demonstrable experience of contributing to strategic board-level discussions and decision-making
- Strong governance skills, including crisis management, performance evaluation, stakeholder management, strategic thinking
- Experience engaging with government, international institutions, philanthropy, or multi-stakeholder initiatives
- A strong professional network that can support ECOS advocacy and fundraising goals
- Experience in non-profit governance and/or fundraising
- Awareness of the external trends affecting the work of ECOS, including in the environmental impact sector
- Demonstrated excellence in ethical leadership, communication, networking and negotiation skills.
Desirable:
- Knowledge of the standardisation system
- Prior board or strategic advisory committee experience
- A background in strategic partnerships or stakeholder engagement
- Experience in navigating legal and compliance issues for organisations
- People and culture leadership experience
Apply now
If you are interested in helping ECOS make an impact, we invite you to apply. Please submit your CV with a brief statement of motivation (1 page max), outlining your experience working in similar roles, what contribution you could offer to enhance our impact, why you are interested in joining the ECOS Board, by midnight 28 February 2026 to careers@ecostandard.org with the subject line “ECOS Board member: your name”.
