The Internet’s leading collaborative open standards organization, the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), is seeking a new chief executive officer to “lead the organization in changing times.”
Former W3C CEO Steven R. Bratt stepped down in June. While the position has been open since that time, the W3C has reportedly stepped up its efforts to fill the role. W3C chief operating officer, Ralph Swick, has been acting as CEO.
According to the W3C’s posting the new CEO will “be responsible for leading the consortium. Together with the W3C director, staff, and membership, the new CEO will develop the vision that leads the web to its full potential, communicate that vision to the world, and engage relevant stakeholders. Will lead W3C's management team, with prime responsibility for strategic planning and change management. Will oversee worldwide operations including all operational, financial, and legal aspects of the W3C, and sustain a culture of cooperation and transparency in operations. Will maintain strong working relationships with W3C's host organizations and member organizations; develop new prospects; and coordinate with other international organizations.”
The position could be one of the highest profile jobs in the web development community and will require a leader with a combination of technical savvy, business prowess, and international sensibilities.
W3C History
Tim Berners-Lee founded the W3C in 1994, some five years after he coined the term “World Wide Web” and developed the first world wide web server. Berners-Lee still plays an important role in the W3C, which generates nearly all of its revenue from membership dues. The organization is aimed at leading the world wide web to its full potential via protocols, standards, and guidelines that ensure compatibility and long term success.
