Call for Applications: SETAC Board of Directors
Nile Kemble, SETAC President
One of the greatest strengths of SETAC has always been its members. Our Society has flourished because members from around the world have chosen to contribute not only their scientific expertise but also their time, leadership and vision. As SETAC President, I have witnessed firsthand the impact that dedicated volunteers have on our Society and the equally remarkable impact that service has on those who volunteer.
If you have ever considered serving on the SETAC Board of Directors, I encourage you to apply.
With nominations now open, we invite qualified full members to put their names forward. Serving on the board is one of the most meaningful ways to advance SETAC’s mission by helping guide the Society’s strategic direction, governance and long-term success. In return, board service offers rewards that extend well beyond the boardroom. Many directors find the experience personally and professionally enriching, building lasting collaborations, mentoring relationships, research partnerships and lifelong friendships.
The opportunity to serve comes with meaningful responsibilities. As the governing body of the global Society, the SETAC Board of Directors provides strategic leadership and oversight while promoting alignment of policies and approaches across the organization. In doing so, it helps ensure that the Society’s philosophy, goals and objectives are advanced worldwide.
The board oversees organizational performance and the strategic execution of global programs with an annual budget of US$1.4 million. The combined budget of SETAC and its Geographic Units (GUs) is US$5.5 million.
Board Vacancies
Five directors will complete their term on 31 December, and SETAC is seeking candidates for election to the board. Board members provide strategic leadership, ensure sound governance, oversee financial stewardship, and support the Society’s continued growth and impact. Directors serve on a volunteer basis and are appointed for a three-year term starting on 1 January 2027.
Desired Competencies and Experience
In assembling a balanced and effective board, SETAC seeks candidates with a broad range of professional backgrounds, perspectives and experience. Desired qualifications include strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, organizational leadership, scientific expertise and a demonstrated commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming society.
We welcome applications from all qualified candidates. To help maintain a balanced and effective board, we are particularly interested in candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Association governance, strategic planning, organizational development and board leadership
- Fundraising, partnership development, stakeholder engagement and resource mobilization
- (Non-profit) financial management, budgeting, auditing, financial risk management and fiduciary oversight
- Digital transformation, information technology, data management and innovation
Expectations
Directors are expected to:
- Act in the best interests of SETAC and its members
- Contribute actively to strategic discussions and decision-making
- Participate in monthly online board meetings and related activities
- Uphold high standards of governance, ethics and fiduciary responsibility
- Serve as ambassadors for SETAC and support the Society's mission and strategic goals
Commitment to Board Composition
SETAC is committed to maintaining a board that reflects the diversity of its membership, drawing on diverse perspectives, experiences, geographic representation, career stages and professional sectors. The board also seeks to maintain a balanced mix of competencies that support effective governance.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their resume and statement of interest describing how their experience, skills and leadership would contribute to the effectiveness of the board and support SETAC's strategic objectives. The SETAC Governance Committee will evaluate candidates against the competencies and attributes outlined in the Governance Committee Standard Operating Procedures. Based on this evaluation, the committee will nominate a slate of candidates for election by the SETAC Full Members.
Further details regarding the election process, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the SETAC Board of Directors and individual board members, are specified in the SETAC Bylaws, Board Procedures and the Governance Committee Standard Operating Procedures.
We encourage qualified members to consider this opportunity to help shape the future of SETAC and contribute to the advancement of environmental science and decision-making worldwide.
Please submit your application by 15 August.
Author contact: [email protected]