Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How can I apply for the Global Leadership Fellows Programme?
Please apply online on the careers section of our website (www.weforum.org/careers). You can apply to any position marked “Global Leadership Fellows” under the title “job category”. In addition to filling in the online application form, you will be requested to submit a resume, the contact details of three references and an 800-word personal essay on what you would like to achieve in your life and what your motivations are to join the GLFP.

When is the deadline?
Specific job openings with a possibility of joining the GLF programme will be posted all year round. Should you be recruited to such a position, you will be able to start working immediately and to integrate the academic modules of the cohort which is starting the programme in the following autumn.

Do I need recommendation letters?
No. All we require are names and contact details of three references. If you get short listed, we may ask you to have recommendation forms filled in by these three reference persons.

When does the programme start?
The academic modules for the 2009 cohort will start in September 2009.

When was the Global Leadership Fellows Programme established?
The September 2005 class was the first cohort.

How many Global Leadership Fellows are currently working at the World Economic Forum?
There are currently 77 Fellows enrolled in the programme.

How many Global Leadership Fellows will be selected for the 2009 Programme?
We will select about 20 Fellows to join the 2009 programme.

Where will I be based?
The Global Leadership Fellows Programme is based in Geneva, Switzerland. Your job assignment will generally be in Geneva or, exceptionally, in our New York offices.

Who grants the Master’s in Global Leadership?
The World Economic Forum will grant the Master’s degree.

What is the balance between classroom and on-the-job training?
About 20% of your overall time will be dedicated to academic modules, workshops, retreats and self study. The GLFP is an intensive programme which may require personal work on weekends as well.

Do you hire candidates who are not Swiss nationals and not holders of a valid Swiss work permit?
Yes. The Forum will file an application for a work permit. If you are accompanied by your husband/wife and/or children, we will also file a residency request for them. EU citizens (first 15 EU countries) will benefit from a permanent permit, renewable every year. Others will benefit from a three-year permit, non-renewable. If you hold an EU nationality (only first 15 EU countries), you have the possibility to live in neighbouring France and have a different Swiss work permit.

What type of Swiss work permit will I have?
You will have a B permit that allows you to work and live in Switzerland. EU citizens who choose to live in France will receive a G permit.

If I am not married, can I still relocate with my partner?
The Forum is not able to file a permit application for your partner, as Switzerland does not recognize partnerships as a legal status. If your partner is an EU citizen, he/she will need to find a job as only the employer can request a work permit for him/her. It is more difficult for non-EU to find a job in Geneva as there are more permit restrictions for non-EU citizens.

Where will I live?
You will rent your own accommodation. However, upon your arrival, the Forum will help you find (if needed) a temporary and then a permanent accommodation in Geneva, or in France if applicable, depending on your requirements for an apartment and your budget.

How much do I pay for tuition and how much will I be paid?
There will be no tuition fees. The Fellows will receive a salary and benefits package commensurate with their responsibilities, and in line with the World Economic Forum’s compensation policies. Think of this as an attractive stipend programme.

Will I receive a relocation allowance?
You will be granted an allowance to move your belongings to Switzerland, which is in line with the Forum’s general staff compensation policy.

What kind of contract will I receive? Will I need to pay taxes?
You will receive a Swiss work contract, linked to the Forum Staff Handbook, which will be given to you at the time of the final offer. You will have a three-year contract. You will be subject to all Swiss social charges as well as Swiss taxes. Taxes will be withheld in accordance with your family status every month directly from your salary (except for Swiss nationals or C permit holders).

Are there any travel opportunities?
Some business travel may be required depending on the projects and the regions to which the Fellows are assigned.
Do you have an e-mail address where I can submit additional questions?
You may address your queries to the following address: leadershipfellows@weforum.org