Oliver Forberich

Member Association: Volt France

Gender: Male

What strategy would you implement to recruit and retain highly specialised volunteers for the functional teams, for example in communications, policy, or data, over a full Board term? 

I would treat volunteer engagement with the same rigor as talent management in a high-performing organization.
First, I would define clear roles, expectations, and impact for each function (communications, policy, data), ensuring that volunteers understand how their work contributes directly to VOLT’s European mission. Purpose is the strongest driver of commitment.
Second, I would build targeted recruitment pipelines by actively sourcing talent from professional networks, universities, and aligned communities across Europe—focusing on skills, not just availability.
Third, I would implement a structured onboarding and development model: clear goals, mentoring, and opportunities to grow into leadership roles. Highly skilled volunteers stay when they learn and progress.
Retention requires recognition and transparency. I would establish regular feedback loops, visible acknowledgment of contributions, and clear communication on how work influences outcomes at European level.
In short: clarity, purpose, growth, and recognition—supported by structure—are key to attracting and retaining top volunteer talent over a full Board term.

Non-executive Board members must both support and challenge the executives. Describe a situation where you would publicly back the Co-Presidents, and one where you would publicly dissent. What guides your choice?

As a Non-Executive Board Member, my role is to strengthen leadership through both support and constructive challenge—always guided by the long-term mission, values, and credibility of the organization.
I would publicly back the Co-Presidents in situations where swift, decisive action is required in line with VOLT’s strategy—for example, during a high-stakes political moment or external crisis. Even if there were internal debate beforehand, once a decision is made, unity is essential to maintain trust, credibility, and momentum externally.
I would publicly dissent if a decision or course of action clearly conflicts with VOLT’s core values, legal obligations, or long-term strategic integrity. For example, if transparency were compromised, governance standards weakened, or key stakeholders systematically excluded, I would consider it my duty to raise concerns openly.
My choice is guided by three principles: alignment with VOLT’s values, protection of institutional integrity, and overall impact on trust—both internally and externally. I strongly believe that disagreement should first be addressed constructively within the Board. However, if critical issues remain unresolved and carry broader consequences, responsible and transparent dissent can strengthen, rather than weaken, the organization.
In all cases, the goal is not opposition for its own sake, but to ensure that VOLT remains credible, principled, and effective in delivering its mission.

What would you do if you believed the Board was making a decision that conflicted with Volt Europa's core values?

If I believed the Board was making a decision that conflicted with Volt Europa’s core values, my first step would be to address the issue internally. I would clearly articulate my concerns, grounding them in our agreed principles, legal responsibilities, and potential reputational impact. I would aim to build alignment by encouraging open discussion and ensuring all perspectives are considered.
If the concern remained, I would advocate for revisiting the decision, proposing concrete alternatives that better reflect our values while still achieving the intended objective. Escalation within the governance structure—such as involving relevant committees or seeking independent advice—would be a next step if necessary.
If, despite these efforts, the Board chose to proceed with a decision that fundamentally undermines our values, I would consider it my duty to formally dissent and ensure that my position is documented. In exceptional cases, where credibility, integrity, or legal compliance are at risk, I would also support transparent communication to the appropriate stakeholders.
My guiding principle is to protect the integrity, trust, and long-term mission of Volt Europa while acting responsibly and constructively at all times.