Chair

The Global Commons Alliance (GCA) is a visionary initiative dedicated to safeguarding the interconnected systems that maintain a stable and resilient planet - the global commons. Our mission is to mobilize citizens, companies, cities and countries to accelerate systems change, and become better guardians of the global commons. We seek out new ideas and spark collective action. We test and incubate innovative new approaches, models and products, at speed. We're constantly convening, facilitating and questioning the status quo - a network of networks empowering each other and envisioning a time when we have moved safely to a rebalanced and restored planet.

In 2021, we embarked on a transformative journey, transitioning from GCA 1.0, our startup phase, to GCA 2.0, our implementation phase. This transition signifies the establishment of a more mature, robustly governed structure. To steer GCA 2.0, we have appointed our inaugural Executive Director. As a result, we are seeking a Chair who can lead the Steering Committee (SteerCo) in a complementary role, supporting the Executive Director, and bringing added value to the Alliance through representation and their extensive networks.

We are seeking a candidate who is a highly experienced, professional, and respected leader with substantive board experience in an international setting and an established positive reputation in the environment-development nexus. We are seeking someone who is passionate about the mission and vision of GCA and is able to represent the ambition and work effectively with donors, the media, staff, and Alliance members. Previous experience as a Chair or Board member in international organizations or inter-sectoral settings is essential. You should be familiar with governance models relevant to international networks and alliances, and have a deep understanding and appreciation of GCA's mission. Dedication to the principles and practices of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion is paramount, as are exceptional communication skills. Proficiency in English (both written and oral) and comfort with remote/virtual collaboration are essential.

The time commitment is anticipated to be up to 3 days per month, with specific days and dates agreed upon. This includes 1-2 hour video calls, document review and feedback, and participation in Steering Committee meetings (four times per year).

How to Apply

For further details on how to apply, please visit https://candidates.perrettlaver.com/vacancies quoting reference number 6843. Candidates wishing to apply should submit a CV (including comprehensive details of key achievements and responsibilities) along with a covering letter which fully addresses the competencies outlined in the role description and person specification. The closing date for applications is 09:00 am GMT on Monday 23rd October 2023.

The Global Commons Alliance will be supported in this appointment by executive search firm Perrett Laver. Any initial enquiries should be directed to Isabela Betoret at Perrett Laver via isabela.betoret@perrettlaver.com.

Accessibility

For a conversation in confidence, please contact Isabela Betoret at Perrett Laver via isabela.betoret@perrettlaver.com. Should you require access to these documents in alternative formats, please contact Anna Sloan on anna.sloan@perrettlaver.com. If you have comments that would support us to improve access to documentation, or our application processes more generally, please do not hesitate to contact us via accessibility@perrettlaver.com.

Inclusion

Perrett Laver believes that excellence will be achieved through recognising the value of every individual. A broad range of perspectives, backgrounds and opinions amongst our global community of colleagues is crucial in maintaining our culture of openness, intellectual curiosity, and creativity. We take an active role in supporting under-represented communities and groups in becoming better and more fairly represented in the leadership of all organisations. We also know that diverse and inclusive teams have a positive impact on our ability to identify, engage and secure candidates from these groups. Our commitment to inclusion across race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, identity, and experience drives us every day - for clients, for candidate identification and in the recruitment, development and retention of colleagues. To ensure inclusion on the basis of age, disability, ethnic or national origin, family circumstance, gender, gender identity, marital status, nationality, political or religious beliefs, race, socioeconomic background, sexual orientation, we would like to specifically invite applications from under-represented groups.

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