Partnership Development Manager - EPFL AI Center

About the role

The EPFL AI Center advances research, education and innovation in AI at EPFL and beyond, within a wide ecosystem of partners including academia, industry, government and international organisations. It seeks a Partnership and Business Developer to build, support and nurture trustful relationships between industrial partners and the AI research, education and innovation ecosystem of the EPFL AI Center and the Swiss National AI Institute. The position is based on the EPFL campus in Lausanne and requires being physically present.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic industry partnership programs and manage the full lifecycle of partnership programs.
• Prospect and network with new industry partners in AI, following EPFL research activities to propose collaboration opportunities.
• Act as a communication link between companies, researchers, the AI Center, the Swiss National AI Institute and EPFL teams and services.
• Organise industrial visits and meetings, and resolve partner issues and complaints to maintain trust.
• Prepare regular progress reports and forecasts using key account metrics.
• Understand companies' and professors' needs and link them to the right EPFL entities.

Required profile

• Degree in science or engineering (Master or Doctorate) with solid scientific expertise, ideally in AI.
• At least 3 years of relevant experience, preferably in a dynamic environment.
• Experience in product development and/or innovation management in a technology company or consulting, with customer-focused solutions.
• Familiarity with the research and education sectors.
• Fluency in English and French.

Required skills

• Ability to manage several tasks and projects at once in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication, organisational, problem-solving and negotiation skills.
• Understanding of entrepreneurial or project management processes.

What we offer

• A collaborative, innovative and inclusive workplace with equal opportunities.
• Access to a diverse community of researchers, entrepreneurs and industry experts.

Fixed-term contract (CDD) starting 1 December 2026, at 80-100% activity, for 1 year, possibly renewable. Only applications meeting the advertised criteria will be considered.