Executive Director - E4S (Enterprise for Society)

About the role

E4S, launched in 2020, is a joint initiative of EPFL, UNIL and IMD that brings together the three institutions' strengths to empower society to tackle global challenges such as sustainable transition, disruptive technology and geopolitical shifts. It seeks an experienced Executive Director (100%, CDI) to lead its strategic and operational development. The role reports to the Academic Directors of the three partners and is administratively based at EPFL in Lausanne.

Key responsibilities

• Execute the strategic plan defined by the Academic Directors and drive the strategic roadmap across the three institutions
• Lead a multidisciplinary team and oversee day-to-day operations and program delivery
• Build relationships within EPFL, UNIL and IMD, develop partnerships with corporate partners, foundations and public institutions, and lead fundraising
• Steer internal events and external engagements according to the Academic Directors' priorities
• Coordinate the Master's in Sustainable Management and Technology (SMT) and promote it
• Oversee the centre's budget and financial planning, including the annual activity report and financial statements to the Supervisory Board
• Oversee the design and execution of the annual flagship event, the Showcase

Required profile

• Proven senior management or executive leadership experience
• Experience across multiple stakeholders and institutions, ideally in academic, public or non-profit settings
• Familiarity with the Swiss higher-education landscape and with designing and delivering master's programmes
• Demonstrated success in partnership development and fundraising
• A master's degree (or equivalent) or a PhD

Required skills

• Strong strategic thinking combined with operational excellence
• Solid financial management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Familiarity with sustainability, disruptive technological change and geopolitics is a strong asset

The contract starts on 15 January 2027. Applications, including a CV and cover letter, are submitted through the EPFL careers process.