ICOS is looking for a new Director General

ICOS ERIC is searching for a new Director General (DG). The DG is appointed by the ICOS ERIC General Assembly for a five-year term, renewable twice. The position will become available mid-to late 2025. The ICOS General Assembly, with support from the ICOS Head Office, has established a selection committee to recruit the new DG. 

The DG oversees and coordinates the ICOS RI activities and is the legal representative of ICOS ERIC. She/he is responsible for the scientific and strategic operation and the further development of ICOS ensuring socio-economic impact, technology development, innovation and international cooperation. The DG ensures the implementation of the GA decisions. The DG reports to the GA and convenes the ICOS Research Infrastructure Committee (RICOM), which represents the scientific and technical competence in ICOS and advises the DG in all matters. The work includes among others: drawing up proposals for the GA, establishing and modifying annual work plans, and ensuring consistency, coherence and stability of the research infrastructure services.

Key Responsibilities

  • The DG is the leader of ICOS RI and the legal representative of ICOS ERIC.
  • The DG is expected to have a vision to maintain ICOS at the forefront of the global observing systems and ensure the long-term sustainability of ICOS.
  • The DG carries out the day-to-day management of ICOS ERIC and is responsible for managing the staff and activities of the Head Office and the Director of the Carbon Portal.
  • The DG ensures the ICOS ERIC activities are in line with the budget and internal rules.

Qualifications

The successful candidate for the role of ICOS DG should possess a diverse set of skills, encompassing the following areas:

Technical and Scientific Expertise

  • Established scientist with preferably a broad and integrative view on greenhouse gases and carbon cycle science, covering the atmosphere, ecosystem and ocean domains.
  • Solid understanding of greenhouse gas data, processes, products and services for users in science, industry, politics and society.
  • Proven experience in collaborating effectively with scientists and governmental entities, emphasising the ability to bridge the gap between scientific expertise and practical applications.
  • Familiarity, or ability to quickly understand the European Research Infrastructure landscape and to consider this landscape in the strategic orientation of ICOS.

Management and Leadership

  • Ability to set out a long-term vision for ICOS and the means for its achievement.
  • Experience in leading large and complex projects in international settings.
  • Experience in managing organisation, budget, and personnel at senior level.
  • Ability to motivate co-workers and achieve high team commitment.
  • Ability to delegate tasks and areas of responsibility to co-workers.
  • Capability to build and maintain consensus and to work with others and achieve sustainable outcomes.
  • Experience in operating at a multi-nation level and dealing with international institutions and funding agencies, particularly the European Commission.

Communication and Diplomacy

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts to diverse stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated success in leading negotiations, highlighting the capability to reach agreements and establish beneficial partnerships.
  • Awareness and adaptability to effectively engage with individuals from diverse nationalities and cultural backgrounds.

Other Requirements

  • The working language of ICOS ERIC is English. The DG should be a fluent English speaker, reader, and writer. Knowledge of at least one other European Union language is beneficial.

Appointment Terms and How to Apply

Information about the application procedure and other details can be found on the ICOS website: ICOS is looking for a new Director General | ICOS (icos-cp.eu)

The deadline for applications: 30th November 2024