Chief Operating Officer

The European Policy Centre (EPC), a leading Brussels think tank on European affairs, is looking for a Chief Operating Officer (COO), to start no later than 1 January 2022.

The COO will support the Chief Executive in delivering the EPC’s strategic objectives and annual work programme, including the continual development and implementation of EPC’s new business model, entailing a significant shift to online activities.

Reporting to the Chief Executive, the COO will be responsible for the day-to-day running of EPC’s internal administrative operations and processes, including recruitment, personnel policy, events, procurement, IT, budget, financial/project management and reporting, as well as corporate and membership services.

Experience & Expertise

• At least 10 years’ senior management experience, including managing organisations and large teams
• Experience in running an association in Belgium (NGO, ASBL, AISBL); think tank management experience and management of membership-based organisations a plus
• Knowledge/experience of dealing with legal publications/agreements/GDPR/HR and personnel issues in the Belgian context
• Solid track record in financial management and budgeting
• Experience of managing and reporting on strategic projects (e.g. operational grants, foundation support)
• Experience of procurement processes (bids and tenders) and a track record in negotiating contracts and memoranda of understanding with funders
• Sound IT skills with proven experience in working with ERP software, experience of SAPB1 a strong plus
• Familiarity and understanding of EU institutions & broad appreciation of main EU policies
• Fluent in English and French; Dutch and/or German would be a plus

Personal qualities

• High level organisational skills
• Good interpersonal & people management skills; awareness of diversity issues
• International outlook, able to lead a multinational team
• Sound negotiating and communication skills
• Dynamic, flexible, sound attention to detail
• Innovative and able to motivate staff in change management processes

Terms & conditions

This is a full-time employment position (the position might also be suitable for independents).

Salary negotiable.

EPC is an equal opportunities employer.  All applications will be treated on merit

Interviews will take place in June 2021.

Please send your CV & letter of motivation in English by email to: [email protected]

The EPC has engaged Phoenix Executive to support this recruitment. Applicants’ data will be shared with Phoenix Executive for the purpose of this recruitment process only. Candidates might be contacted by Phoenix Executive for follow-up. Deadline for applications: 28 May 2021