#USA #Los Angeles #ICANN #Internet Governance #Nominating Committee

Invitation to Apply for the ICANN Board of Directors

The Nominating Committee (NomCom) of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has officially opened the application process for new Board members. This initiative is aimed at bringing in experienced leaders from around the globe who can offer fresh perspectives on internet governance and policy.

ICANN's Role in Internet Governance

ICANN plays a crucial part in maintaining the stability and security of the internet by overseeing the coordination of unique identifiers. This non-profit organization, which operates with an annual budget of around $150 million and employs over 450 staff worldwide, ensures that the internet remains an interconnected and interoperable resource for more than six billion users globally. The new Board members will serve from the 2026 Annual General Meeting until the 2029 meeting, overseeing strategic directions, policy alignment, and proper governance within the organization.

Who Should Apply?

The NomCom is specifically looking for leaders with extensive experience who have worked successfully in complex, international settings. Candidates should possess a strong understanding of management challenges at scale, particularly in roles that demand strategic thinking and ethical leadership. Ideal applicants will have:

• - Integrity and Objectivity: A strong reputation for sound judgment and ethical decision-making.
• - Experience in Executive Leadership: Previous roles in governance or management within organizations comparable to ICANN in size and scope.
• - Board Experience in Non-Profits: Familiarity with fiduciary responsibilities and collaborative decision-making in mission-driven organizations.
• - Understanding of ICANN's Mission: A solid grasp or keen interest in the structure of the internet and ICANN's important function within the global internet ecosystem.
• - Cultural Awareness: The ability to work across diverse regions and cultures, displaying commitment to a diverse and representative Board.

While expertise in internet technologies is advantageous, the committee welcomes candidates from various sectors who can contribute their knowledge and experience in governance within a technical and politically charged environment.

Expectations and Commitment

Successful candidates are expected to devote approximately 20 hours per week to ICANN duties. This includes attending up to six board workshops and three public ICANN sessions annually, contributing to board committees, and engaging with the ICANN community across different time zones.

Why Join the ICANN Board?

Tom Barrett, the Chair of the NomCom, mentioned, “Joining the ICANN Board provides a unique opportunity for individuals to apply their governance and strategic experience for the greater global good.” The ICANN operates at the intersection of technology, policy, and international collaboration, and board members influence decisions impacting the internet's security, stability, and resilience—key resources for governments, businesses, and individual users worldwide.

James Gannon, the incoming Chair of the NomCom, added that “experience from both for-profit and non-profit sectors strengthens ICANN's ability to operate responsively and effectively.” The organization is on the lookout for leaders who understand the balance of responsibility and collaboration.

Application Process

Interested individuals can find comprehensive information about the requirements, commitments, and expectations on the NomCom website. The application form is also available there. The deadline for submissions is February 18, 2026. All evaluations conducted by the NomCom will be confidential, adhering to ICANN’s regulations on transparency and diversity. Successful candidates will be announced at the ICANN Annual General Meeting in October 2026.

About ICANN

Founded in 1998, ICANN is tasked with ensuring a stable, secure, and unified global internet. Every connection made online requires a unique identifier—be it a name or number. ICANN facilitates the coordination of these identifiers globally, ensuring seamless connectivity. For more information about ICANN, please visit ICANN's official website.