Organisation: European Association of Innovation Consultants (EAIC) – www.eaic.eu

Position: Secretary General  

Location: Brussels, Belgium

Employment Type:  Freelance (or equivalent) on Part- / Full-time basis depending on experience & availabilities 

Start Date: As soon as possible, by 01 September ideally

Compensation: Please indicate your daily fees - Note: The envisaged total invoicing volume should fall in the following indicative bracket €60.000 – €80.000 / per annum (excl. VAT)

The EAIC, founded in July 2021 and based in Brussels, aims to foster synergies amongst innovation consultancy companies across Europe. With 60 current members and a target of 80 by the end of 2025, the association seeks to enhance the impact of consultancy expertise on a European level.

The current priorities of EAIC include: Strengthening EAIC approach to ethical practices in innovation consulting via the Association Code of Conduct; Informing the preparation of FP10, the next Framework Programme for Research and Innovation; Building on its members experience with various European R&I Funding Programmes (e.g. Horizon Europe, Innovation Fund, etc.) to provides recommendations for improvements to EU institutions.

You will be joining a growing association in a positive development phase, with a committed Executive Board, at an interesting time (start of the mandate of the new European Parliament and of the new European Commission, preparation of FP10 proposal expected in 2025, etc.).

Strategy:

• Develop and implement strategic plans aligned with the EAIC Mission and Vision.
• Recommend and contribute to policy development for Board approval.

Governance:

• Serve under the direction of the President and the Board and Support them with updates on activities, membership, issues, and financial status.
• Organise governance meetings (monthly meetings of the Executive Board, Annual General Meetings), prepare agendas and documents, and follow up on action items.
• Maintain and enforce the EAIC Articles of Association

Operational and financial management:

• Oversee day-to-day operations ensuring efficiency and effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
• Maintain accurate records, including meetings, member information, and legal documents.
• Develop and manage the association’s budget, ensuring financial stability in liaison with EAIC Executive Board / Treasurer.
• Identify and implement funding opportunities, including sponsorships and grants.
• Assist in carrying out the Association’s action plans
• Collaborate with Working Group leaders.

Membership

• Develop and implement strategies for member recruitment, retention, and engagement.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for member inquiries and support.

Communication and External Relations:

• Ensure effective (internal / external) communication via newsletters, emails, social media, and the website.
• Represent EAIC to stakeholders, government agencies, industry partners, and the media.
• Advocate for the association’s positions on relevant issues.

Required:

• Knowledge of European research and innovation ecosystem.
• Effective negotiation and collaboration skills.
• Professional demeanor with adherence to ethical business practices.Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to support the policies and mission of the association.
• Proactive team player with the ability to interact with members across Europe.

Preferred:

• Experience in the innovation consultancy field.
• Experience managing a European association.
• Understanding of the European decision-making process.
• Established networks in relevant European institutions.

Interested candidates should submit their CV, cover letter detailing their experience (2-page max), and claimed daily fees to info@eaic.eu.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, ultimate deadline for application is 05 July 2024 at 17.00 (Brussels Time).

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