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Q: What does the Verification Advisory Panel do?
Jordi: The Verification Advisory Panel (VAP) provides independent expert advice, technical oversight, and quality control for the CHS Alliance Verification Scheme. Its core responsibilities include recommending improvements to verification methodologies, advising on self-assessment processes, reviewing third-party verification or certification bodies, and responding to feedback or concerns from users of the scheme. Through these functions, the VAP ensures the scheme remains credible, relevant, and in line with internationally accepted practices for standards verification.

Q: Why are you looking for new members?
Jordi: We are seeking 2–3 new independent experts to broaden the panel’s expertise, diversify perspectives, and support the continual improvement of the verification process. Regular renewal of the panel ensures a healthy rotation of skills, maintains independence, and responds to emerging trends and needs in the humanitarian and development sector.

Q: What does it involve? How often do you meet?
Jordi: Panel members serve a voluntary role, typically dedicating about 3–4 days per year, with a term of three years that can be renewed once. The VAP meets from 3 to 4 times a year, usually remotely, as well as for additional meetings as needed. Between meetings, members review documents, provide feedback, and may participate in ad hoc discussions or decision-making processes.

Q: How do you choose who is successful?
Jordi: Selection is based on an open call for applications, followed by shortlisting and interviews conducted by a panel of CHS Alliance Board members and/or staff. Candidates are assessed for technical expertise in CHS implementation and verification, quality assurance, certification systems, standards, and related areas. Diversity—particularly gender and geographic representation—is prioritized, and conflicts of interest are carefully managed. Final appointments are made by the CHS Alliance Board.

Q: Who are you looking for this time round? Why is this different?
Jordi: We are especially interested in independent experts with experience in accountability, standards verification, donor due diligence, or certification systems such as ISO 9001, Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Social Accountability Standard (SA8000), Fair Trade, Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM), Internal Control Integrated Framework (COSO), and others. This round, we are keen to enhance representation from underrepresented groups and the Global South, ensuring our work reflects diverse perspectives and local realities. Candidates must not represent CHS-verified organisations or hold conflicting roles.

Q: Where are you hoping the panel will take you in the future – what direction?
Jordi: The VAP aims to keep the CHS Verification Scheme robust, fair, and responsive to changing needs in the sector. Moving forward, we hope to further strengthen the credibility and impact of the verification process, embrace innovation, and foster greater recognition from donors and other stakeholders.

Tips for applicants:

• Clearly demonstrate your independent expertise and relevant experience in the fields of CHS implementation, quality and accountability assurance, verification, standards, or donor due diligence, related to CHS or other standards and systems.
• Share concrete examples of how you have contributed to technical advisory bodies or quality assurance systems.
• Highlight your commitment to global accountability and inclusivity, especially if you bring a perspective from underrepresented groups or regions.
• Be honest about potential conflicts of interest.
• Keep your motivation letter concise- focus on your passion for quality humanitarian work and what you can uniquely contribute to the VAP.

To find out more and to apply please go to: Join the CHS Alliance Verification Advisory Panel (VAP) | CHS Alliance