Secretary General

Location:
 European Union with regular visits to Brussels

Reports to:
 Board of Directors

Type:
 Part-time, Permanent

About the Association

The Virtual Worlds Association AISBL is a newly established, member-driven organization dedicated to promoting, facilitating, and advancing research, innovation, and dissemination activities that foster the market, regulatory, and societal uptake of Virtual Worlds technologies and applications.

Working closely with the European Commission within the Co-programmed European Partnership on Virtual Worlds under the Horizon Europe programme, the Association represents partners beyond the Union and brings together leading voices from industry and academia. As a non-profit initiative, our mission is to build a vibrant innovation ecosystem that enables the realization of Virtual Worlds, driving progress for Europe's economy and society.

By supporting the development and deployment of immersive technologies across sectors such as Industry, Healthcare, Media, Gaming, Arts, Education, Defence, and Public Services, the Association plays a strategic role in shaping Europe's leadership in the next generation of Virtual Worlds.

Join us in building Europe's immersive future — and help shape how Virtual Worlds will transform collaboration, creativity, and innovation across society.

Role Overview

The Secretary General is the chief executive and legal representative of the association. This role combines strategic leadership, financial stewardship, and operational management, with a strong focus on stakeholder engagement, policy alignment, and membership growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of the association's strategic and operational plan in line with EU digital and industrial policies.
• Represent the association in high-level dialogues with the European Commission, industry leaders, and research institutions.
• Develop and deliver the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) and related position papers for Virtual Worlds.
• Establish the association as a living lab showcasing how Virtual Worlds can transform collaboration, governance, and innovation.
• Support the Board of Directors and General Assembly, ensuring effective governance, operations, and legal compliance.
• Manage finances transparently, oversee audits and procurement, and ensure responsible use of funds.
• Grow and engage a diverse membership community across academia, SMEs, and large enterprises through collaborative initiatives and events.
• Lead communication and outreach activities, organize flagship events, and promote diversity and inclusion across all programs.

Candidate Profile

• Citizen of the European Union with an advanced degree in a relevant field (e.g., digital technologies, public policy, EU affairs, business).
• At least 5 years of experience in relevant management roles within EU-funded initiatives, industry research, industry associations, or research organizations.
• Solid understanding of EU Research & Innovation policy, Horizon Europe, and co-programmed partnerships.
• Proven ability to lead initiatives, manage stakeholders, and ensure transparent financial and organizational operations.
• Strong communication and leadership skills, with fluency in English (other EU languages an asset).
• Hands-on approach with experience in outreach, dissemination, or event organization.
• Passionate about the transformative potential of Virtual Worlds and committed to diversity, collaboration, and excellence.

Working Conditions

The position offers full flexibility to work from anywhere within the European Union. Occasional travel to Brussels and other European locations will be required, estimated at up to 30% of working time, for board meetings, stakeholder events, and EU engagements. The role will initially be part-time (three days per week, equivalent to 60% FTE) with the intention to evolve into a full-time position within the first three years, depending on the association's growth and available funding.

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organization. We strongly encourage women and candidates from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality and evaluated solely on merit.