Life Watch ERIC is Europe’s e-Science and Technology Infrastructure for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research. It is seeking an outstanding Chief Executive Officer (CEO), through an international open competition, to lead the organisation into its next phase of development. The CEO will work with the General Assembly, Member States and partners to strengthen Life Watch ERIC’s scientific excellence, technological capacity, organisational cohesion and contribution to open science, biodiversity knowledge and sustainability policy. About Life Watch ERIC Life Watch ERIC is a distributed European Research Infrastructure Consortium (ERIC) composed of eight European Union Member States. It provides digital platforms, services and computational tools that empower scientists to explore and understand the complex relationships between biodiversity, ecosystems and human activities. Its mission is to accelerate scientific discovery and innovation through a state-of-the-art e Science research infrastructure, helping society address environmental and sustainability challenges. Life Watch ERIC operates through a distributed architecture comprising three Common Facilities, coordinated and supported by the Statutory Seat Office (SSO) in Seville, Spain: Virtual Laboratories and Innovation Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Our value proposition: Life Watch ERIC provides scientists, policy‑makers and citizens with open access to biodiversity and ecosystem data, analytical tools and virtual laboratories. By integrating technology, data and knowledge, Life Watch ERIC supports evidence-based decisions, advances open and FAIR science, and strengthens Europe’s capacity to respond to the planetary biodiversity and climate crisis. The Position The CEO is the chief executive and legal representative of Life Watch ERIC as Director General, responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction and operational management of the organisation. The successful candidate will be an exceptional leader with extensive experience across research,



public administration and engagement with societal stakeholders, and a strong record of executive leadership in large‑scale research infrastructures or programmes operating in complex governance settings. Working closely with the General Assembly, Member States and European institutions, the CEO will lead the implementation of Life Watch ERIC’s strategy and guide the organisation’s next phase of development. The role requires visionary guidance, collaborative engagement and a strong commitment to open science, biodiversity and ecosystem research, and sustainability. Main Duties and Responsibilities Provide strategic leadership and ensure alignment with the General Assembly’s vision and objectives. Represent Life Watch ERIC as its legal and public representative in all external relations. Oversee the scientific, technical, administrative, and financial operations of the organisation. Promote the visibility and integral impact of Life Watch ERIC across the European Research Area and beyond. Strengthen collaboration among Member States, the Common facilities and international partners Promote knowledge transfer to end users and policy‑makers, ensuring that Life Watch ERIC’s services and outputs support research, policy and societal needs. Ensure compliance with legal, financial, and ethical frameworks applicable to ERICs. Lead the development of policies that reinforce Life Watch ERIC’s contribution to European and global initiatives on biodiversity and sustainability. Inspire, manage, and support Life Watch ERIC’s staff and research community to achieve organisational excellence.



Key Competences and Experience Over 10 years of professional and leadership experience in similarly responsible roles at European or international level, preferably within research infrastructures, academia, or intergovernmental organisations. A thorough understanding of the scientific and societal challenges in data‑driven biodiversity and ecosystem research and be able to translate these challenges into concrete approaches for Life Watch. Demonstrated ability in strategic planning, governance, and financial management, with the capacity to prioritise and translate strategic objectives into a concrete work plan for the organisation. Excellent ability to connect across cultures, disciplines, and sectors. Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the capacity to interact effectively with the General Assembly, Advisory and other Supporting Bodies, understand their dynamics, and build trust. A deep commitment to open science and a healthy research culture. High ethical standards and integrity in science, technology, governance, and working culture. Proficiency in English, the working language of Life Watch ERIC. Knowledge of Spanish or other European languages is an asset. Education and Qualifications Ph D degree or equivalent qualification in a discipline relevant to biodiversity and ecosystem research or related fields. Evidence of continuing professional development, for example in leadership or management (e.G., MBA), will be an asset. Terms of Appointment Location: Life Watch ERIC Statutory Seat, Seville, Spain; Duration: Four (4) years, renewable once by decision of the General Assembly; Salary: Competitive, commensurate with the position’s seniority and the candidate’s experience [120.000-140.000€]. Life Watch ERIC is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and gender balance (). Applications are welcomed from qualified candidates of all backgrounds and nationalities. #J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Chief Executive Officer (Sevilla)
🏢 LifeWatch ERIC
📍 Sevilla