Organization - Governance - ILTER - International long term ecological research

Governance

ILTER places emphasis on solid and professional internal structures which provide the institutional framework for its long-term operations in line with its strategic goals. The ILTER governance approach defines roles and responsibilities, decision-making processes, and accountability mechanisms regarding the association's actions, its collaborations with other networks and organizations, and regarding how its funds are spent.

Member Networks and Regions

ILTER is a network of networks. Most of its members are national LTER networks, consisting of scientists collectively engaged to conduct scientific research according to the ILTER mission, vision and goals. Each of these networks has its own long-term program and has become part of the ILTER legal entity. Some of the ILTER member networks are structured into ILTER Regional Groups: LTER Europe and ILTER East Asia Pacific (EAP).

Governance structure of the ILTER association

The ILTER governance model establishes a comprehensive framework that ensures efficient coordination, collaboration, and decision-making across both the distributed member networks and the centrally organized initiatives of the association. By distinctively delineating the formally operating Governing Board and the forum-like Coordinating Committee, a range of membership options is made available.

For specific information on the various structural elements, please see below. All details about ILTER governance are described in the ILTER Bylaws available via the ILTER Public Cloud.

Governing Board

The Governing Board stands as ILTER's central decision-making entity, with each ILTER Member Network holding a single vote. To participate in the ILTER Governing Board, it is mandatory for Member Networks to have settled their annual membership dues with the ILTER association. The Governing Board exercises authority over ILTER's yearly budget allocation and strategic planning, among other key responsibilities.

Settling the annual membership fee creates a distinct demarcation, enabling the respective Member Network to actively participate in decision-making processes and the election of ILTER office holders. Furthermore, the allocation of ILTER's expenditures is determined by the networks that have contributed the corresponding funds. Additionally, membership within the Governing Board is publicly recognized on this website.

All Governing Board members are also members of the Coordinating Committee.

Coordinating Committee

The Coordinating Committee provides a dynamic platform for the active engagement of all Member Networks, fostering ongoing and efficient collaboration. This forum facilitates the exchange of information and thoughtful discourse on matters of significance to ILTER. It reviews updates from the ILTER chair, committees, and Research Initiatives, offering valuable insights. Furthermore, the Coordinating Committee collaboratively formulates action plans.

The ILTER governance structure is at all times inclusive, encompassing all Member Networks, even those currently unable to fulfill their financial membership obligations. Through the Coordinating Committee, every Member Network is integrated within the governance framework, providing them with the opportunity to contribute their insights and express their concerns. Notably, all Coordinating Committee members are welcome to offer guidance and recommendations to the Governing Board.

Executive Committee

The ILTER Executive Committee is responsible for the day-to-day operational aspects of ILTER. The ILTER EC interacts virtually, holding a monthly teleconference. It encompasses the Chair and the Co-Chair, the chairs of the standing Committees for Science and Information Management, representatives of US LTER, SAEON (South African Environmental Observation Network), the regional groups ILTER EAP, and LTER Europe, the IMO-Officer (International Management Office) and the Secretary.

Only Member Networks which are also members of the Governing Board may delegate individuals to the Exectutive Committee. The persons taking part in the EC are shown below.

Chair and Co-Chair

The ILTER Chair convenes and presides at the meetings of the Governing Board, the Coordinating Committee and the Executive Committee, and ensures that the business of ILTER is carried out effectively and in accordance with the Governing Board's decisions. The Co-Chair supports the Chair's work and takes over the Chair’s role in case the Chair is absent. Both Chair and Co-Chair are elected by the Governing board. Terms vary between two and six years.

Standing and Ad Hoc Committees

ILTER has established two standing committees, namely for Science and for Information management. For specific purposes, also ad hoc committees have been set up, for example to work out guidelines for internal balance. The Chairs and Co-Chairs of the standing committees are elected by the Governing board for a term of three years.

International Management Office

The International Management Office provides day-to-day support for the ILTER Chair's and Co-Chair's work and performs ad hoc work as foreseen by the Chair. Among its ongoing obligations, it provides support regarding ILTER meetings, including minute taking, set up of virtual meeting tools etc.. It also handles central communication, such as mailing lists and the ILTER Newsletters and official correspondence. The IMO officer is nominated by the ILTER Chair.

Secretariat and Financing Office

The ILTER Secretariat handles the financial administration of the association and of its Research Initiatives. It hosts the document store and the central contacts database. It performs contractual work and legal obligations including maintenance of the associations register. Moreover, it is responsible for maintaining this website and for data security. Both offices closely collaborate. The ILTER Secretary is elected by the Governing Board. The term of office is four-years.

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