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Call for Applications
(3 Vacant Director Positions Reopened)
Selection of the Management Board 2025-2027

Duration: 2-year commitment 

Application Deadline: 18 July 2025 (22:00 HRs CET)

Start Date: 01 08 2025 

Location: Remote with 3 to 4 in person board meetings/year in the EU 

Type of Position: Voluntary

​​

Benefits: 

The position is on a volunteer basis, and you will be able to: 

  • Gain international multidisciplinary experience in non-profit organization management; 

  • Develop a strategic mindset and leadership skills; 

  • Develop a profound understanding of European Higher Education; 

  • Contribute towards addressing societal challenges and be a positive changemaker; 

  • Work in an inclusive and friendly work environment; 

  • Access to a unique network;

 

General Requirements:

  • Fluent communication skills in English, both verbally and in writing; 

  • Strong presentation, writing and negotiation skills;

  • Ability to work with a diverse group of people and across time zones and coordinate work with a geographically distributed team; 

  • Project management skills and IT literate, able to use project management and other tools such as Asana, Slack. 

  • Lead by setting high standards and live by these standards, mentor co-workers and instil inspiration to them and remain optimistic in challenging scenarios; 

  • Ability to ensure effective and cohesive team performance with people of different cultural and religious backgrounds, different gender and diverse political views, Cross-cultural competence; 

  • Demonstrable ability to communicate at a high level, both verbally and in writing, and capacity to effectively interact with multiple stakeholders including leaders from different hierarchies; 

  • Ability to collaborate with other internal EMA Units to accomplish the aforementioned aims;

  • Commitment to organizational values and behaviours that underpin the culture and values of EMA.

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Director of Student and Alumni Relations Unit

​

EMA is looking to appoint a Director of Students and Alumni Relations who will have overall responsibility for the formation and successful work of the Students and Alumni Relations Team. 

​

Full job description here.

Director of Research and Innovation Unit

​

EMA is looking to appoint a Director of Research and Innovation. The research and innovation unit focuses on identifying adequate directions and opportunities as well as innovative areas for EMA projects.

​

Full job description here.

Director of Partnership Development Unit

​

EMA is looking forward to appointing the Director of Partnership Development who will manage EMA’s internal and external partners to ensure long term financial and organisational sustainability. 

​

Full job description here.

How can I apply?

Application details, including the list of required documents as well as the link to the application form for the Management Board (MB) Director positions, can be found in the respective job description linked above.

Application Documents for Management Board Directors:

  • Proof of approval as an Ordinary member of EMA;

  • CV / Resume stating relevant experience for the position;

  • Motivation letter (max 200 words);

  • Presentation deck (max 5 slides including: About You, Motivation, Plan for 2 Year Term);

  • Video/Audio pitch (maximum 1,5 mins): What do you plan to contribute to EMA? How do you want to lead your Unit?What is your leadership style - what type of leader are you?

  • 2 Recommendation letters containing contact details (email and phone number).

Application Deadline: 18 July 2025 (22:00 HRs CEST)

Please read EMA’s Statute and Internal Regulations to ensure you understand your rights and the full scope of responsibilities of the position/s. Please visit the EMA Website to learn more about EMA’s structure, and have a look at EMA's Volunteer and Personnel Policy, and other relevant Policies and Guidelines to learn more about candidacy, selection/pre-selection, and other aspects related to the selection process.

 

Please note that only “Ordinary” Members can apply as candidates for the Unit Director positions in the EMA Management Board, as prescribed in the Internal Regulations.

​

For any questions or queries, please contact mbselection@em-a.eu. 

​​

Submit your Application here.

​

​

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Management Board Selection Key Dates - Timeline

4 July 2025

Call for Applications opens

 

18 July 2025

Close application process (22:00 CEST)

 

22 July 2025

Preliminary eligibility checks

 

22 July 2025

Shortlisting of eligible candidates & set up interview schedule

23 - 27 July 2025

Online interviews conducted by the Selection Committee

 

1 August 2025

Appointment of the EMA board by the Selection Committee

✨ EMA welcomes its Management Board for 2025–2027

EMA’s strength has always come from its people!

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What makes this association truly unique is its diverse, global community - students and alumni from over 170 countries, united by a shared Erasmus Mundus experience. It is the dedication and generosity of EMA’s volunteers - past and present - that fuel our mission. They believe in the transformative power of international higher education, and together, they drive EMA’s evolution as a force for inclusion, innovation, and global solidarity.

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After a rigorous and competitive process, the Erasmus Mundus Students and Alumni Association (EMA AISBL) is pleased to announce the appointment of its new Management Board for the term 2025–2027. This new team brings together a rich blend of experience, creativity, and commitment - ready to lead EMA into its next exciting chapter.

 

🌍 Meet the New Board Members:

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  • Ana Janjusevic – Director, Outreach & Capacity Building Unit

  • Gohar Shoukat – Director, Communications & IT Unit

  • Anmol Singh – Director, Policy & Quality Assurance Unit

  • Rashi Maithul – Director, Project Support Unit

  • Graziella Gonçalves Pereira – Director, Legal & Internal Affairs Unit

  • Soundharya Dharshini Nachimuthu Shanmugam – Director, Talent Management Unit

  • Mihaela Georgieva Kafedzhiyska – Director, Finance Management Unit

 

These leaders were selected after an open call that received a record 47 applications, followed by 43 interviews, conducted by a 16-member Selection Committee. This Committee included former EMA Presidents, Vice Presidents, and distinguished alumni -  all of whom brought deep institutional knowledge and ensured a fair, transparent, and merit-based process.

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"Throughout the selection process, we heard from candidates whose commitment, boldness, and eagerness to serve the EMA community deeply inspired us. Their conviction in bringing transparency, inclusiveness, and transformation from within gave us confidence in the power of collective action to move EMA forward,” said a member of the Selection Committee. “With the authority vested in us by EMA’s Statutes, we have entrusted this responsibility to a remarkable group of members who will now shape the future as the EMA Management Board 2025–2027.”

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We extend our warmest gratitude to the former Management Board, led by Dr Md Ashiqur Rahman and Ruturaj Trivedi, for their valuable contributions to the EMA community.

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To ensure a complete and representative Board, EMA is now reopening applications for the three remaining Director positions. If you’re passionate about shaping the future of international education and ready to lead with purpose, this is your chance. The call for applications is now live on this page. Also follow us on social media for full details and to apply before the deadline.

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As this new term begins, we look ahead with renewed purpose, grounded in empathy, global experience, and shared values. Every Board has a beginning - but the journey ahead belongs to all of us.

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EMA’s path forward is long, collaborative, and full of possibilities. To every volunteer, partner, and community member: thank you for walking this road with us.

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Together, let’s shape the next chapter of EMA - bold, inclusive, and future-driven!

EMA Management Board Selection Process: 
A Celebration of Community, Trust, and Collaboration

The Erasmus Mundus Students and Alumni Association (EMA AISBL) is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the Management Board selection interviews for the 2025–2027 term. This important milestone marks not just the completion of a governance process, but a celebration of the active engagement, dedication, and trust that continue to strengthen our community.

The journey began with the Call for Applications on 1 May 2025, officially launching the selection process in accordance with EMA’s established timeline. The statutory period for applications closed on 31 May 2025, after which the selection committee diligently reviewed all submissions and proceeded to the interview phase. On 23 June 2025, all online interviews had been successfully concluded, bringing the process to a timely and well-organized conclusion.

This year, EMA witnessed an unprecedented level of interest, receiving a record number of 47 applications from passionate members eager to contribute to the association’s leadership. Among these, one application was unfortunately deemed ineligible due to the applicant’s non-membership status. Three candidates applied for more than one unit, demonstrating their broad commitment to EMA’s mission and vision. While the majority of candidates actively engaged in the process, two did not book an interview slot despite receiving reminders, and one candidate who initially confirmed their participation later withdrew from consideration. In total, 43 interviews were conducted. 

Applications were received across all ten EMA Management Board units, reflecting the diverse interests and strengths of our community. Units such as Outreach and Capacity Building (7 eligible, and an ineligible applications), Student & Alumni Relations (5 eligible applications, a candidate did not book the interview slot), Policy & Quality Assurance (6 eligible applications, a candidate did not book the interview slot), Research & Innovation (5 eligible applications), Partnership Development Unit (5 eligible applications), Legal & Internal Affairs (3 eligible applications), Communication & IT (4 eligible applications), Financial Management (5 eligible applications, a candidate did not book the interview slot), Talent Management (4 eligible applications), and Project Support (2 eligible applications), all attracted strong candidates, each eager to bring their unique expertise and passion to the table.

The interview process was conducted with the utmost care, and due diligence, overseen by a selection committee comprising current and former EMA leaders and distinguished Erasmus Mundus alumni, who generously contributed their time, expertise, and guidance throughout this rigorous process:

  1. Dr. Md. Ashiqur Rahman (EMJM 2017), Incumbent President;

  2. Ruturaj Trivedi (EMJM 2019), Incumbent Vice-President;

  3. Marvi Qazi (EMJM 2024), Incumbent Management Board/ Incoming President

  4. Shahin S. Eity (EMJM 2021), Incumbent Management Board/ Incoming Vice-President

  5. Nathan Lemahieu (EMJM 2016- FUSION-EP), EM Doctoral Program (FUSION-DC), EMA PR for FUSION-EP | Internal Affairs Volunteer | IA coordinator and SC member (EMA 6th SC)

  6. Lucia Loposova (EMJM 2012), Former EMA Vice President 2017–2019 (7th SC) | Regional Chapters Coordinator 2015-2017 (6th SC)

  7. Dr Teeroumanee Nadan (EMJM 2007 NEBCC), Former Professional Development Coordinator, EMA 7th SC (2017-2019)

  8. Amir Kamran (EMJM 2011 LCT), Community Development Coordinator, EMA EMA 7th SC (2017–2019).  

  9. Dr Katharina F Heil (EMJM 2017), Former EMA President 2019-2021.

  10. Marsela Husen (EMJM 2016), Former VP 2019-2021, Former PDU Director (interim) 2022-2023.

  11. Estefania Zarate Angarita (EMJM 2018), Former Management Board Member/ CIT Director 2019-2021.

  12. Manasseh Anand M (EMJM 2013), Former Management Board Member/ PSU Director 2019-2021, GA OC Lead Lisbon 2023, EMA Sustainability Meets Impact Project Lead, EMA Lifetime Achievement Award 2025.

  13. Dr Sheenam Jain (EMJM 2020 SMDTex), EMA Member since 2016, PR for SMDTex 2018 to 2019, EMA Genie Team Member December 2020 till June 2021, MB Director PSU July 2021 to June 2024 | ESAA Liaison Officer July 2021 to June.

  14. Kateryna Shalayeva, (EMJM 2010), EMA Women Board Member in charge of professional development 2012-2013, EMA Regional Chapter in Eurasia President 2013-2015, EMA Team Lead, Partnerships & Funding (selected initiatives) 2016-2019.

  15. Geline Alfred Fouko, (EMJM 2012), 2012 EMJM Graduate - Joint European Master in Comparative Local Development.

  16. Cristina Martinez Tapia, (EMJM 2017), Sponsorship Representative at the Partnership Unit (2018/19), Head of the Account Management Sub-unit at the Partnerships Unit (2019/20), GO-DIJIP project coordinator (2021/23), CR Ecuador (2020/24)

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Their tireless commitment ensured that the evaluation process remained thorough, balanced, and fair to all applicants. We are deeply grateful to this exceptional committee, whose collective experience and long-standing service to EMA added immense value and credibility to the process. 

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Importantly, this process would not have been successfully concluded without the unwavering support of several EMA Selection Committee volunteers. Their hard work, determination, and commitment were an immense support throughout every stage of this complex and time-sensitive undertaking. Their behind-the-scenes efforts ensured that interviews were arranged, communication remained seamless, and all logistics were handled with professionalism and care. We owe a heartfelt thank you to these outstanding individuals who exemplify the very spirit of service that EMA stands for.

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We extend our heartfelt thanks to every candidate who submitted an application, participated in the interviews, and expressed their genuine desire to lead and serve the EMA community. Your enthusiasm and dedication are the driving forces behind EMA’s growth and continued success. We are equally thankful to our community for your ongoing trust, your engagement throughout the process, and your steadfast belief in EMA’s mission.

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The support and guidance provided by our EMA veterans have been truly invaluable, and their continued involvement demonstrates the strength of our shared commitment to the association’s future.

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We invite everyone to stay connected and follow our updates as we move forward to the next phase of the selection process. Together, we will continue to build a stronger, more inclusive EMA community. Further updates regarding the Selection of the Management Board will be announced soon.

EMA MB Selection Committee 2025-27

Call for Applications: Selection of the Management Board 2025-2027.

Duration: 2-year commitment 

Application Deadline: 31 05 2025

Start Date: 01 07 2025 

Location: Remote with 3 to 4 in person board meetings/year in the EU 

Type of Position: Voluntary 

 

Benefits: 

 

The position is on a volunteer basis, and you will be able to: 

 

  • Gain international multidisciplinary experience in non-profit organization management; 

  • Develop a strategic mindset and leadership skills; 

  • Develop a profound understanding of European Higher Education; 

  • Contribute towards addressing societal challenges and be a positive changemaker; 

  • Work in an inclusive and friendly work environment; 

  • Access to a unique network; 

 

General Requirements:

 

  • Fluent communication skills in English, both verbally and in writing; 

  • Strong presentation, writing and negotiation skills;

  • Ability to work with a diverse group of people and across time zones and coordinate work with a geographically distributed team; 

  • Project management skills and IT literate, able to use project management and other tools such as Asana, Slack. 

  • Lead by setting high standards and live by these standards, mentor co-workers and instil inspiration to them and remain optimistic in challenging scenarios; 

  • Ability to ensure effective and cohesive team performance with people of different cultural and religious backgrounds, different gender and diverse political views, Cross-cultural competence; 

  • Demonstrable ability to communicate at a high level, both verbally and in writing, and capacity to effectively interact with multiple stakeholders including leaders from different hierarchies; 

  • Ability to collaborate with other internal EMA Units to accomplish the aforementioned aims;

  • Commitment to organizational values and behaviours that underpin the culture and values of EMA.

Director of Student and Alumni Relations Unit

​

EMA is looking to appoint a Director of Students and Alumni Relations who will have overall responsibility for the formation and successful work of the Students and Alumni Relations Team. 

​

Full job description here.

Director of Research and Innovation Unit

​

EMA is looking to appoint a Director of Research and Innovation. The research and innovation unit focuses on identifying adequate directions and opportunities as well as innovative areas for EMA projects.

​

Full job description here.

Director of Legal and Internal Affairs Unit

​

EMA is looking to appoint the Director of Legal and Internal Affairs who will have overall responsibility for ensuring the lawfulness of EMA's operation and activities.

​

Full job description here.

Director of Partnership Development Unit

​

EMA is looking forward to appointing the Director of Partnership Development who will manage EMA’s internal and external partners to ensure long term financial and organisational sustainability. 

​

Full job description here.

Director of Outreach and Capacity Building Unit

​

EMA is looking to appoint the Director of Outreach and Capacity Building. This Unit will be in charge of promoting EMJM/D (Erasmus Mundus Joint Master/Degree and ongoing courses from previous cohorts) as well as the EMA brand and facilitating global networking at a regional level.

​

Full job description here.

Director of Talent Management Unit

​

EMA is looking to appoint the Director of Talent Management. This Unit effectively handles some of the responsibilities of a usual HR department, focusing primarily on recruitment and volunteer management.

​

Full job description here.

Director of Communications & IT Unit

​

EMA is looking forward to appointing a Director of Communications & IT who will be responsible for EMA's internal and external communication activities. 

​

​

Full job description here.

Director of Policy and Quality Assurance Unit

​

EMA is looking to appoint the Director of Policy and Quality Assurance. This unit deals with both internal and external EMA stakeholders, and cooperates with all other organizational units in order to achieve common goals. 

​

Full job description here.

Director of Financial Management Unit

​

EMA is looking forward to appointing the Director of Financial Management who will manage the financial infrastructure and requirements of the Association.

​

Full job description here.

Director of Project Support Unit

​

EMA is looking to appoint the Director of Project Support with overall responsibility for project management and administration.

​

​

Full job description here.

How can I apply?

Application details, including the list of required documents as well as the link to the application form for the Management Board (MB) Director positions, can be found in the respective job description linked above. 

​

Application Documents for Management Board Directors:

  • Proof of approval as an Ordinary member of EMA; 

  • CV / Resume stating only relevant experience for the position;

  • Motivation letter (max 200 words);

  • Presentation deck (max 5 slides including: About You, Motivation, Plan for 2 Year Term);

  • Video/Audio pitch (maximum 1,5 mins):

    • What do you plan to contribute to EMA?

    • How do you want to lead your Unit?

    • What is your leadership style - what type of leader are you?

  • 2 Recommendation letters containing contact details (email and phone number).

​

Application Deadline: 31 May 2025 (22:00 hr CEST)

 

Please read EMA’s Statutes and Internal Regulations to ensure you understand your rights and the full scope of responsibilities of the position/s. Please visit the EMA Website to learn more about EMA’s structure, and have a look at  EMA's Volunteer and Personnel Policy, to learn more about candidacy, selection/pre-selection, and other aspects related to the selection process.     


Please note that only “Ordinary” Members can apply as candidates for the Unit Director positions in the EMA Management Board, as prescribed in the Internal Regulations.

 

For any questions or queries, please contact mbselection@em-a.eu. 

​

Submit your Application here.

Management Board Selection Key Dates - Timeline

1 May 2025

Call for Applications opens

 

31 May 2025

Close application process (22:00 CEST)

 

5 June 2025

Final eligibility checks

 

*Reopening unfilled positions.

10 June 2025

Shortlisting of eligible candidates & set up interview schedule

13-23 June 2025

Online interviews conducted by the Selection Committee

1 July 2025

Appointment of the EMA board by the Selection Committee

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