Operations Manager – New Foundation

About the role

A growing foundation is looking for an Operations Manager to build and run its operations from day one. The role offers high autonomy, direct contact with key decision-makers and the chance to shape how the foundation works in a lean, entrepreneurial environment. It is based in Geneva with flexible work location.

Key responsibilities

• Build and run operations: establish and continuously improve operating processes, coordinate projects and initiatives across stakeholders, and track priorities, deadlines and deliverables.
• Support governance: organise Board and committee meetings, prepare agendas, minutes and action plans, document decisions, and coordinate with external advisors and partners.
• Manage administration and finance: coordinate external service providers, support budgeting, invoicing and reporting, keep records accurate, monitor grant and beneficiary payments, and ensure compliance with Swiss foundation law and supervisory authorities.
• Support accounting, annual financial statements, audits and financial reporting.
• Lead projects and special initiatives from idea to execution, research topics, brief and support decision-making, and coordinate events, workshops and stakeholder meetings.
• Champion smart ways of working by identifying and implementing AI-driven solutions across administration, finance, governance and operations, and embedding automation and data analysis into the foundation's operating model.

Required profile

• About 4-7 years of professional experience in operations, project management, startups, consulting, foundations, NGOs or similar fast-paced organisations.
• Strong project management and organisational skills, and proven ability to integrate AI tools into daily work.
• Excellent written and spoken English and French; German is a plus.
• High discretion, professionalism and integrity.
• Genuine interest in digital freedom, privacy, technology governance and societal impact is highly valued.

Required skills

• Proficiency with modern digital tools and collaborative platforms.
• Interest in technology, innovation and AI-enabled ways of working is a strong advantage.

What we offer

• A rare opportunity to build a new foundation with a strong mission and international reach, run with startup agility.
• Direct collaboration with a committed Board of Trustees and the wider ecosystem of the founding organisation.
• Flexibility in work location, with a strong presence in Geneva.
• Competitive salary adapted to the non-profit context.