Executive Director – International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association

Are you ready to help shape the future of a global organisation advancing underground solutions worldwide? Welcome to the International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association (ITA). The ITA brings together a global network of Member Nations, industry leaders and experts to advance the use of underground space as a sustainable solution to infrastructure and urban challenges. Building on more than 50 years of international collaboration and technical excellence, ITA is looking for an experienced Executive Director to lead its Secretariat, strengthen its organisational effectiveness and help deliver its strategic priorities. This is a unique opportunity to provide leadership within a global organisation, working closely with the ITA President, Executive Council and international network of members, partners and technical experts.

About the role
Reporting to the ITA President and Executive Council, the Executive Director leads and manages the ITA Secretariat, a small international team, ensuring effective day-to-day operations and translating ITA’s strategic priorities into action. The role encompasses organisational leadership, financial oversight, governance support, international partnerships and stakeholder relations, as well as the coordination of ITA’s programmes, technical publications and flagship activities.

Key responsibilities
· Leadership and Secretariat management: Lead, support and develop the Secretariat team; establish clear priorities and responsibilities; and improve systems, workflows and operational effectiveness.
· Strategy and governance: Work closely with the President and Executive Council to translate strategic priorities and decisions into action, support effective governance processes and provide timely operational reporting.
· Financial and operational management: Oversee delegated budgets, financial controls and operational planning, working with the ITA Treasurer and stakeholders to support sound financial management.
· International relations and partnerships: Maintain and develop constructive relationships with Member Nations, sponsors, technical bodies, partner organisations and other stakeholders to strengthen international collaboration and advance partnerships aligned with ITA’s strategic priorities.
· Programmes and flagship activities: Oversee Secretariat coordination of key ITA activities, including the ITA World Tunnel Congress, ITA Tunnelling Awards, technical publications, and the work of Committees and Working Groups, in collaboration with their respective leaders and governing bodies.
· Continuous improvement and organisational development: Identify and advance improvements to ITA’s processes, digital tools, information management and working practices to enhance organisational effectiveness and support the Association’s long-term development. Who are we looking for? We are looking for a strategic, collaborative and results-oriented leader with experience managing an international, membership-based or not-for-profit organisation, or a comparable complex organisation. You bring strong financial and operational management skills, experience leading teams and working with elected boards and diverse stakeholders, and the ability to translate strategic priorities into measurable results. You combine excellent communication skills with sound judgement, diplomacy and a collaborative service-oriented leadership style. Fluency in English is required; additional languages are an asset. A professional degree in business administration, economics, engineering or another discipline relevant to the role is preferred. This is a full-time position with a working commitment of 90–100%, depending on the agreed arrangement. The role offers flexible, remote working, with availability during Central European

working hours
(CET/CEST) required, alongside flexibility for international meetings and activities.

What we offer
· A senior leadership role in a global organisation with international reach and impact.
· The opportunity to work closely with global industry leaders and technical experts, and international stakeholders.
· A flexible working environment and the opportunity to help shape ITA’s future and advance its global mission.
· An attractive remuneration package reflecting the role and the successful candidate’s experience. Application process Motivation letters and CVs should be submitted by email to communication@ita-aites.org. Questions regarding the position may also be directed at the same address. Diplomas and certificates may be requested at a later stage. The application deadline: 20 December 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews following the application deadline.