Nominations Process for the Global Sustainability Standards Board
The GSSB
The GSSB has sole responsibility for setting globally accepted standards for sustainability reporting according to formally defined due process, exclusively in the public interest. The GSSB approves GRI Sustainability Reporting Standards (‘GRI Standards’) and their related interpretations ‘authoritative pronouncements’, which are subject to due process as defined in the Due Process Protocol.
The GSSB may publish other technical documents that support the application of GRI Standards and their related interpretations and provide clarifications on sustainability reporting issues not specifically addressed by the GRI Standards, such as guidance, and FAQs, which are not subject to due process.
The GSSB conducts its business in the public interest and has strong transparency requirements attached to its meetings and decision-making. GSSB meetings are open to the public, and recordings are available here.
The Chief Standards Officer, supported by the Standards Team of the Foundation, reports to and supports the GSSB in fulfilling its responsibilities.
The GSSB Member’s role
Position Summary
GSSB members are global experts selected for their deep knowledge and experience in sustainability, reporting, policy, business, labor, investment, civil society, or related fields.
As stewards of the GRI Standards, GSSB members are responsible for overseeing due process and making decisions regarding the content of the GRI Standards based on a multistakeholder input and public interest considerations.
Appointed by: The GRI Supervisory Board
Term: A three-year term, with a possible renewal for a second term.
Time Commitment
Between 160 - 180 hours per year to attend one (potentially two) in-person meetings (2 days each) and approximately 10 virtual meetings, including meeting preparation, document review and submitting comments. This excludes time to travel to and from the in-person meeting location(s). Some GSSB members participate in additional ad hoc meetings and other GRI initiatives.
Reimbursement
Participation as a member of the GSSB is voluntary. GRI reimburses reasonable travel-related expenses and provides a daily per-diem related to in-person meetings, according to its Travel Policy.
Key Responsibilities
All specific responsibilities are outlined in the GSSB Bylaws
- Set and approve GRI Standards and Interpretations
- Work in line with the Due Process Protocol and uphold transparency
- Serve the public interest
- Oversee the Chief of Standards, supported by the Standards Team
- Promote transparency of meetings and decisions
- Contribute technical expertise and multi-stakeholder perspective
- The opportunity to participate in Technical Working Groups and attend meetings with external stakeholders alongside the Chair
- The opportunity to attend events involving other global, regional, and national standards boards.
Ideal Experience
- Recognized expertise in sustainability reporting or a related field
- Ability to work collaboratively in a multi-stakeholder environment
- Excellent communication skills
- Judicious decision-making
- Integrity, objectivity and discipline
- Commitment to GRI's mission, vision, and the public interest
- Ability to act in an independent, objective and inclusive manner
Nomination and appointment process
The GRI Supervisory Board is seeking qualified applicants for the GSSB member positions starting on 1 January 2027. We welcome nominations from current GSSB members eligible for 2nd terms and from all GRI stakeholder constituencies. A definition of GRI’s constituencies can be found here. GSSB members are appointed for a term of three years and are eligible to serve two consecutive terms.
How to submit a nomination
If you are interested in submitting a nomination for the role of GSSB member, please complete the nomination form and submit the below documents. You are also invited to submit names and contact details of suitable applicants, or forward this information to interested parties within your network.
- Completed Nomination form
- Cover letter
- A recent CV
- The Employer's Statement if the nominee is employed (not self-employed)
The Supervisory Board will shortlist applicants and conduct interviews shortly thereafter. The Supervisory Board is committed to consider both regional and gender balance on the GSSB in making appointments.
All questions and expressions of interest in this role can be directed to GRI Governance Team at [email protected].