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Youth and Environment Europe (YEE) is seeking a highly motivated and strategically minded individual to serve as its next Secretary General. This is a leadership opportunity for a young changemaker committed to environmental advocacy, youth empowerment, and social justice. The successful candidate will take on a pivotal role in guiding YEE’s mission, overseeing operations, and representing the organisation at national and international levels.
This is a full-time role (40 hours per week) with a one-year contract and strong potential for renewal. The position may be carried out remotely, with a preference for candidates based in Europe and holding the right to work in the European Union.
About YEE
Youth and Environment Europe is the largest independent network of youth-led environmental organisations in Europe. YEE works to:
- Strengthen youth participation in environmental decision-making
- Raise awareness of environmental challenges and the climate crisis
- Foster international cooperation among young activists and organisations
Key Responsibilities
As Secretary General, the selected candidate will:
1. Provide Strategic and Organisational Leadership
- Oversee the implementation of YEE’s strategic direction and programmes
- Ensure alignment between daily operations and the organisation’s long-term goals
2. Lead and Support the Secretariat
- Manage staff recruitment, performance development, and wellbeing
- Coordinate with the Executive Board and provide managerial oversight to ensure effective internal communication and operations
3. Oversee Project and Financial Management
- Lead planning, reporting, and execution of YEE projects and funding cycles
- Manage financial procedures in coordination with the finance team
4. Represent YEE Externally
- Serve as the organisation’s representative in meetings with partners, funders, institutions (EU, UN, NGOs), and international forums
- Develop and maintain strong partnerships and networks
5. Ensure Organisational Compliance and Governance
- Supervise internal policy development, statutory compliance, and human resource matters
- Promote transparent, inclusive, and democratic decision-making processes
Essential Criteria
Candidates must:
- Be under 35 years of age
- Be proficient in English
- Reside in Europe, preferably with an existing EU work permit
- Be aligned with YEE’s mission and values
- Be available for a full-time, 12-month commitment starting end of September 2025
Ideal Candidate Profile
YEE is looking for a candidate with:
- A strong commitment to climate justice, youth empowerment, and social equity
- A proven record in:
- Organisational leadership and team coordination
- Project and financial management within NGOs or youth-led movements
- Partnership development with stakeholders including EU, UN agencies, and funders
- Empowering and mentoring young leaders
- Managing HR processes and internal policy frameworks
Additional Assets
- Prior experience as a Secretary General or executive leader in a youth-led NGO
- Experience facilitating inclusive, consensus-based decision-making
- Competence in drafting governance documents and internal policies
- Multilingualism or familiarity with EU institutional frameworks is a plus
Work Arrangements and Compensation
- Duration: Minimum 12-month contract, full-time, with a 3-month probationary period
- Salary: Approx. €2,955.80/month gross
- The contract is provided under Czech labour law. Candidates may be required to pay taxes in the Czech Republic, depending on their legal status
- Remote work is possible for EU and non-EU residents who are legally eligible to work in the EU
Application Process
Interested candidates should complete the application form by 18 August 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in early September.
Equal Opportunity
YEE is committed to building a diverse and inclusive working environment. In cases of equal qualifications, preference will be given to candidates who contribute to diversity within the team.
About the Organisation
YEE connects youth-led environmental non-profits across Europe, promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing, and sustainable activism. The organisation is co-funded by the European Union and supported by the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe.
Visit official website for more information
FAQs — Youth and Environment Europe (YEE): Secretary-General Opportunity
1. What’s the scope and nature of the Secretary-General role at YEE?
This is a full-time, 12‑month leadership position (40h/week), with a 3‑month provisional period, offered remotely—though the selected candidate must reside in Europe (with EU work eligibility preferred). The monthly gross salary is 73,150 CZK (about €2,955.80) (Facebook, Leaving Nigeria).
2. What are the key responsibilities of the Secretary-General?
You’ll provide strategic leadership and ensure YEE’s mission aligns with daily operations. Responsibilities include overseeing the Secretariat, managing HR and finances, working closely with the Executive Board, securing EU-related grants, representing YEE internationally, and ensuring legal compliance and efficient structures (Blue-jobs).
3. Who is eligible to apply?
To be eligible, applicants must be under 35 years old, fluent in English, and reside in Europe—preferably with an EU work permit. Alignment with YEE’s mission in environmental advocacy, youth empowerment, and social justice is essential (Leaving Nigeria).
4. What’s the application process and timeline?
Submit your application via the online form by 18 August 2025. Selected candidates will be invited to interviews in early September, and the role is expected to start around late September or early November 2025 (Opportunities for Youth).
5. What makes YEE unique and appealing as an organization?
Founded in 1983, YEE is Europe’s largest independent youth‑led environmental network. It brings together youth organizations from across Europe to drive environmental awareness, facilitate cooperation, and amplify youth voices in sustainability. With NGO consultative status at UNEP, the Council of Europe, and the European Environmental Bureau, this is a chance to lead a truly impactful network .
