Supervisory Board Member – Fundraising & Communications

Simavi- who are we?

Water is indispensable to life. Yet, as a result of climate change, vulnerable communities across the globe are increasingly exposed to the devastating effects of drought, flooding and contaminated drinking water. At Simavi, we place women at the centre of addressing the water crisis. This is because women are disproportionately affected by climate change, while at the same time being essential agents of sustainable change.

Through our programmes, we develop locally driven solutions that secure women’s and girls’ access to safe drinking water and strengthen their resilience to the impacts of climate change. We pursue this mission through public campaigns in the Netherlands, evidence-based advocacy, awareness-raising events, and the implementation of high-impact projects across Africa and Asia.

Focus of the position

Fundraising and communications are crucial areas for Simavi. Our work is only possible thanks to the support of the public and the visibility of our organisation. At the same time, it is an ongoing challenge to remain innovative, diversify our income streams, and make effective use of a wide range of fundraising channels.

Maintaining and strengthening the relationship with our supporters is vital: a personal approach and transparent communication foster loyalty and trust. For Simavi in particular, the challenge is: to remain relevant with shifting dynamics taking place with our donor base,  focus on donor retention, and wherever possible - to achieve growth. The Supervisory Board plays an important role in shaping strategy and monitoring growth objectives.

Key contributions of the new Supervisory Board member

• Provide active advice on fundraising strategies and innovations to help ensure sustainable financial growth.
• Bring experience in fundraising in the Dutch context; from companies, institutions, and private donors.
• Offer expertise in communication, marketing, and positioning.
• Be part of the audit committee to supervise on budget and forecasting
• Contribute a valuable professional network and be willing to engage this network on behalf of Simavi.
• Possess sound financial insight and the ability to assess financial implications of strategic choices.
• Help the organisation think about opportunities for growth, while connecting and engaging with different perspectives.

Profile

• Genuine curiosity and intrinsic motivation to engage with Simavi’s mission and vision.
• Strengthens the Supervisory Board with knowledge, skills, and passion in the field of communications and fundraising.
• Holds a broad and relevant professional network and is motivated to use it to advance Simavi’s mission.
• Financial background and experience
  

Terms and conditions
The remuneration of members of the Supervisory Board is limited to an expense allowance. Supervisory Board members are appointed for fixed-term periods of four years. A person may be appointed to the Supervisory Board for a maximum of two four-year terms.

The Supervisory Board of Simavi has 5 to 7 members, including the Chair person. The board meets at least 4 times per year in hybrid settings (online and in the office).

Interested ? Please send your CV and a motivation letter by clicking on the application link before 16 November 2025.

For more information about the vacancy, please reach out to Ankie van Wersch-Lenders, Chair of the Supervisory Board, at a.vanwersch@mvonederland.nl