Senior Advisor to the Managing Directors

VIB is an entrepreneurial non-profit research institute, with a clear focus on ground-breaking strategic basic research in life sciences and operates in close partnership with the five universities in Flanders.

To support the two Managing Directors in the implementation of the institute’s strategy, VIB is seeking a Senior Advisor.

Role purpose

Reporting to the two Managing Directors (MDs), this position will provide high-level advice and support to the MDs in topics related to governance and administrative matters. The position will assist in the rollout and implementation of key projects. The Advisor will ensure the efficient management of the office of the MDs.

Responsibilities

• Governance: manage the institute’s governance calendar including the agenda and documents for the meetings of the Board of Directors and the Directors’ Committee; assist in the capturing of meeting minutes.
• Project management: follow-up and coordination of strategic projects that the MDs are responsible for; play a key role in change management; identify gaps in the rollout and implementation of key projects.
• Continuous improvement: undertake tasks that support the ongoing implementation of governance policies and procedures, in collaboration with the different internal departments and the scientific centers.
• Executive support: oversee the information flow to and from the Managing Directors; draft messages and correspondence to be sent on behalf of the MDs; ensure that urgent enquiries and emerging issues are brought to the MDs’ attention; assist with the filing of information in accordance with records management procedures.
• Leadership: share collective responsibility for delivering organisational objectives, through active engagement with collaborators at all levels in the organisation.

• Understanding of the academic environment; an understanding of governance and Board functions
• A track record of managing and delivering projects within specified timeframes, understanding of the application of relevant project management tools
• Robust written and verbal communication
• Understanding of change management principles
• An understanding of how to source relevant organisational information to understand needs and requirements and preempt potential project challenges
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate, engage and influence others
• Ability to identify opportunities for change

• Contributes to a climate where people are motivated to do their best to help the institute achieve its objectives
• Builds strong internal relationships and delivers “internal client”-centric solutions
• Seeks ways to drive the organization forward
• Gains the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity
• Interacts with all stakeholders in ways that demonstrate respect for social and cultural differences

• A chance to contribute to an innovative institute with a major impact on society
• An attractive salary package with extra benefits
• A smart working environment in our state-of-the-art head office (move foreseen Q4 2023)

Start date: 1 September 2023 or as agreed upon
Work city: Ghent, Belgium
Employment fraction: 80-100%

If you are interested in this challenging and rewarding opportunity, please submit your application online.