The GEM PhD School functions under the auspices of its Board of Directors (BoD), which includes representatives from each constituent institution as well as a student delegate. It meets at least once a year when it convenes either as the GEM PhD School’s Selection Board (incl. all members bar the student delegate) or as Management Board (incl. all members).

In February of the preceding year, the selection board meets to select the admitted students and award available scholarships. As management board, it assesses and mandates the Central executive’s Office with the day-to-day running of the programme.