Chair of the Steering Committee – End Water Poverty at WaterAid June 2026

Vacancy Announcement Chair of the Steering Committee – End Water Poverty (EWP) Position Details Change Starts with Water. Change Starts with You. Every day, millions of people live without access to clean water, decent sanitation, and good hygiene. End Water Poverty (EWP) works to ensure that water and sanitation are recognized and realized as fundamental human rights for all. About End Water Poverty (EWP) End Water Poverty is a Southern-led global civil society coalitionadvocating for universal access to water and sanitation. The coalition works to ensure water and sanitation services are: Accessible and affordable Safe and equitable Environmentally sustainable Climate-resilient EWP brings together: More than160 member organizations Across90+ countries Including grassroots organizations, NGOs, regional networks, and trade unions Together, members work to address systemic inequalities and advance water justice worldwide. About the Role EWP is seeking an experienced, visionary, and values-driven leader to serve as Chair of the Steering Committee. The Chair will provide strategic governance leadership and help drive systemic change in advancing global water and sanitation justice. The Chair Will: Provide strategic governance leadership. Ensure the effective functioning of the Steering Committee. Act as a visible ambassador for the coalition. This is anon-executive governance role. Day-to-day operations are managed by the EWP Secretariat. The Chair also plays a key role in: Fostering meaningful participation among diverse members. Strengthening political alignment across regions. Ensuring the coalition remains connected to grassroots realities. Advancing collective advocacy priorities. Key Responsibilities 1. Governance Leadership Lead and oversee the effective functioning of the Steering Committee. Uphold EWP’s governance principles and accountability standards. Chair meetings and facilitate inclusive decision-making processes. 2. Strategic Direction Guide coalition priorities and long-term strategic direction. Promote alignment across member organizations and regions. Provide strategic guidance and support to the Secretariat. 3. Stewardship Support leadership selection and succession planning processes. Monitor implementation of the coalition’s strategic plan. Ensure accountability for agreed priorities and outcomes. 4. Advocacy & External Engagement Represent EWP at priority global events and forums. Champion coalition advocacy priorities and campaign positions. Serve as an external spokesperson when appropriate. Strengthen strategic alliances and political positioning. Support engagement around major global milestones, including the United Nations Water Conference 2026. 5. Ethical Leadership Promote transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance. Manage sensitive issues and stakeholder relationships constructively. Uphold safeguarding principles and ethical standards. 6. Collaboration with the Vice-Chair Work closely with the Vice-Chair. Share responsibilities where appropriate. Ensure continuity of leadership and governance. Working Relationship with the Secretariat The Chair will work closely with the EWP Secretariat by: Providing strategic guidance while respecting operational independence. Maintaining regular coordination with the Global Coordinator. Ensuring clarity of roles and responsibilities. Supporting effective collaboration between governance and management functions. Accountability The Chair is accountable to: The Steering Committee The wider EWP membership (through the Steering Committee) Performance Assessment Performance will be reviewed by the Steering Committee or a designated subgroup against agreed governance criteria. The Chair will have the opportunity to respond to any assessment findings. Governance Structure Steering Committee Responsible for: Governance oversight Strategic direction Organizational decision-making Secretariat Operational management Program implementation Day-to-day coordination Equity & Inclusion Commitment EWP is committed to: Equity Inclusion Southern-led leadership Strong preference will be given to candidates from the Global South. Requirements Core Competencies Successful candidates should demonstrate: Governance and Board Leadership Strategic Thinking Communication and Influencing Skills Intercultural Sensitivity Integrity and Independence Essential Experience Water, Sanitation & Development Strong background in WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) or related sectors. Experience in: Global advocacy Human rights International development Governance Global advocacy Human rights International development Governance Leadership & Governance Proven experience chairing boards, committees, or multi-stakeholder bodies. Ability to facilitate inclusive dialogue and consensus-building. Strategic Capability Experience working within complex global or regional coalitions. Strong strategic judgment and decision-making skills. Communication & Representation Excellent interpersonal and diplomatic abilities. Ability to represent diverse stakeholder interests effectively. What the Chair Gains This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of global water and sanitation advocacy. Global Visibility Represent a leading international coalition at major global events. Strengthen your profile as a global advocate for water and sanitation justice. Drive Systemic Impact Influence advocacy efforts across more than 160 organizations operating in over 90 countries. Help transform strategic ideas into meaningful action. Shape Global Narratives Engage with policymakers, donors, civil society leaders, and international institutions. Influence discussions on water rights and sustainable development. Lead a Southern-Led Coalition (Continued — see the full advert via the application link above.)