To ensure a smooth and effective coordination of the GEH consortium the partners agreed to apply a simple governance system which has been proven to work reliably in many ERA-Net and ERA-Net Cofunds. The central components of Governance are work packages (WPs), their work package leaders and the task leaders working together in the Executive Team (ET). The coordinator is part of that team as the WP-leader of WP1 “Management”. The final decision-making body of the GEH is the Consortium Board (CB) which is composed of representatives from each partner organisation. In order to be able to take decisions concerning joint research calls, in particular decisions concerning budget issues, the partners who conduct a joint call will form a temporarily active funders’ board, in which only the funding parties of the respective call are represented.
Navigating the unique structure of GEH involves important considerations:
- Distinction of research projects: GEH distinguishes between research projects funded by relevant initiatives and those that arise from its own joint calls, particularly for follow-up and contractual clarity.
- New entrants through WP6 "Widening and Outreach": Parties interested in joining GEH through activities in WP6 will be linked as a Network of interested incoming partners, depending on their commitment and alignment to HORIZON-WIDERA-2021-ERA-01-09 Support for policy makers.
- Collaboration in thematic mission: As an agri-food and biotechnology initiative, GEH is collaborating within a dynamic landscape. The governance of the Green ERA-Hub includes an external expert group, which promotes the exchange of best practices, closer cooperation and alignment with other EU initiatives.
Governance components of GEH:
- Coordinator (FZJ): Responsible for representing the GEH Consortium to the European Commission and overseeing project progress.
- Executive Team (ET): Consists of work package and task leaders and ensures efficient implementation of the work plan.
- Consortium Board (CB): Decision-making body with at least one representative from each partner, meets twice a year.
- Funders Boards: Variable boards formed for each joint call, consisting of one representative per participating partner.
- External Expert Group: Ensures effective alignment between GEH and other initiatives, meeting biannually.
- Network of interested Incoming Partners: Results from WP-6 "Widening and Outreach", linking new parties with varying roles based on commitment, not necessarily as full partners to minimize administrative burden. Participation in Funders Boards in mandatory for those contribution to join call.