Clarification from the Experts of the Selection Committee for the 2025-2027 Management Board

In response to questions raised concerning the appointment of EMA Management Board 2025–2027

Dear EMA Members,

As members of the Selection Committee (SC) responsible for appointing EMA Management Board (MB) for the 2025–2027 term, we thank the community for the thoughtful questions. In the spirit of transparency and shared accountability, we address below three questions that have emerged following the announcement of the MB initial selection results.

We encourage you to read the first open letter from SC here. It outlines the overall approach to the selection process.

All applications were evaluated independently using a standardised rubric provided for the selection process, which included four equally weighted criteria:

1. Motivation & Alignment with EMA’s Mission - Why the candidate applied, their vision for the role or unit, and level of commitment.

2. Leadership & Execution Ability - Evidence of reliability, past initiatives, and capacity to lead across cultures and time zones.

3. Past EMA Engagement or Comparable Experience - Involvement in EMA or transferable skills/experiences from other volunteer-led organisations.

4. Relevant Skills for the Unit - Unit-specific competencies, practical skills, domain knowledge, and creativity.

   
   

Particular attention was given to ethics and integrity. 

Question 1: Why were new MB members without any experience with EMA selected over other experienced candidates?

While prior EMA experience was considered a positive factor, it was not the sole criterion for selection. In some cases, candidates with minimal prior EMA involvement demonstrated stronger alignment with the role’s requirements, presented well-structured plans convincingly, and possessed relevant and transferable experiences, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to EMA.

The selection approach aimed to balance community continuity with fresh perspectives, recognising that diverse experiences drive innovation and sustainability in an alumni-led association like EMA. The criterion of Past EMA Engagement or Comparable Experience allowed transferable skills to be equally weighted, enabling new voices to contribute to EMA’s growth.

Question 2: Why are some MB positions still open, although several applications were received for those positions (mostly from people with EMA involvement)?

Since its establishment in 2006, EMA has always aimed at achieving the highest standard for its leadership. The Selection Committee followed this demand and placed a top priority on visionary leadership, concrete commitments, strong individual ethics and integrity in behaviour at all times. In line with the principles of due diligence, all aspects of a candidate’s eligibility and readiness - including clarity around academic and professional standing were considered in the final decision.

Rather than filling positions prematurely, the SC recommended reopening the call to ensure that the best possible fit is found for each role, with the long-term interest of the organisation in mind.

Question 3: Why were three members of the Board appointed from the same Master’s programme and cohort as the current President?

We recognise that this pattern raised concerns within the community, and we appreciate the opportunity to clarify.

The Selection Committee prioritised merit. Candidates were evaluated independently by multiple SC members using a standardised rubric. The Erasmus Mundus programme affiliation or cohort of a candidate was not a factor at any stage of our review.

The EMA MB members were selected for their clear and well structured plan of actions in relation to their unit’s portfolios, and demonstrated capacity to leverage their professional and leadership profiles to serve the current pressing needs of EMA.

In conclusion,

Each candidate went through a universally applied approach with video recordings of interviews and documented individual evaluations maintained to ensure transparency and traceability throughout the process.

We hope this statement offers clarity on the rationale and integrity behind the selection process. The Selection Committee stands by its decisions and remains committed to a spirit of accountability, fairness, and service to the EMA community.

We welcome continued dialogue - grounded in mutual respect and shared purpose and reaffirm our availability to engage in good faith with any EMA member.

With respect and commitment,

Experts from the Selection Committee for the 2025–2027 Management Board

02 August 2025