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Board Member with an International Heart Wanted.

  • mwierda6
  • May 13, 2024
  • 3 min read

Are You a Board Member with a Passion for International Cooperation?

Then this additional role might be something for you. Below you can read more about the NWB Fund, what we expect from a new board member, and what we offer in return.


The NWB Fund

The NWB Fund is an independent foundation established by the Dutch Water Authorities Bank (NWB Bank) to (co-)finance international activities of the Dutch water authorities. It has been doing so since 2006 and has laid an important foundation for the Blue Deal programme. In this programme, water authorities and ministries work together to help 20 million people worldwide gain access to clean, sufficient and safe water between 2019 and 2030.


Taking Action on Climate Adaptation

The NWB Fund has developed a new long-term strategy that will be implemented in the coming years. The Fund aims to accelerate and increase impact in the area of climate adaptation within international water projects, particularly through nature-based solutions and the involvement of local communities. We achieve this through co-financing of projects and a training programme for water professionals.


External Engine

Within the field of international water management, the NWB Fund serves as an external engine: a driver of innovation and a financier of experiments, especially where this is difficult for other parties. We do this as much as possible in collaboration with the Blue Deal programme, the (Association of) Dutch Water Authorities, and external partners such as the Ministries of Infrastructure & Water Management and Foreign Affairs.


Organisation

The fund's operational team consists of a director (1 day/week), a programme manager (18 hours/week), and some secretarial and accounting support. Altogether this amounts to approximately 1 FTE. The Fund also has a programme committee that assesses co-financing applications and a board of directors.


The board consists of five members: the chair is the international affairs portfolio holder from the Association of Dutch Water Authorities, two seats are reserved for water authority board members, one seat is filled by a representative from the NWB Bank’s management, and one seat is reserved for a representative from the broader Dutch water sector. This last, open seat is currently vacant.


Board Role – Profile

The role of the board, specifically the open seat:


  • Determining the foundation’s strategy and regulations, and monitoring their implementation;

  • Overseeing financial management, e.g., approving the annual budget and financial statements;

  • Representing the Dutch water sector in the board of the NWB Fund, particularly NGOs, research institutions and/or the private sector;

  • Promoting international cooperation within the Dutch water sector;

  • Acting as an ambassador for the NWB Fund within relevant networks and maintaining external relations;

  • Serving as a sparring partner for the director and programme manager.


What Are We Looking For?

A representative of the Dutch water sector (excluding the water authorities), who has a passion for international water projects and wants to contribute to climate adaptation in a nature- and people-inclusive way. Someone with governance experience, strategic insight, sensitivity, and strong networks—preferably also with personal experience in international work. Of course, we also expect interest in the work of water authorities and availability for board meetings and related activities.


What Do We Offer?

A meaningful additional role that brings personal satisfaction because of its international impact. Board members do not receive a financial compensation; expenses are reimbursed.


Board members are appointed for a four-year term, with the possibility of one reappointment. We aim for nomination and decision-making during the board meeting of 11 April, after which the new member can start immediately.


How to Apply

Applications (cover letter and CV) may be submitted no later than 1 July 2024 to:


Bert van Boggelen, Director of the NWB Fund

T: +31 6 5153 4933


A short introductory meeting will be scheduled shortly after the deadline. For questions, please feel free to get in touch directly.

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