Responsable de l'unité Données & Vice‑directeur(trice)

About the role

The Federal Statistical Office (OFS) is seeking a senior leader to head the Data Directorate and serve as Vice‑Director and member of the executive board. This role sits at the intersection of data, technology and public administration, driving the strategic development of Switzerland’s national data infrastructure.

Key responsibilities

• Assume overall strategic responsibility for the Data Directorate, covering data management, data science, artificial intelligence and the Swiss MicroDataCenter (SMDC).
• Ensure implementation of OFS’s data strategy and act as Swiss Data Steward, actively shaping national data policy.
• Lead the strategic development of central data infrastructures such as registers, metadata platforms and data‑access services.
• Strategically steer the use of data science and AI to advance statistical production.
• Represent OFS in national and international forums on data standards, data spaces and secondary data use.
• Contribute to the strategic direction and development of OFS as a member of the executive board.

Required profile

• University degree in natural or social sciences (preferably a PhD) complemented by further training in data science, economics or public administration.
• Extensive senior‑management experience with a proven record of leading large‑scale transformation projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in data policy, data governance and digital administration, with deep knowledge of federal administration structures and processes.
• Political acumen and experience representing the organization at national and international bodies, managing stakeholders across administration, politics and research.
• Active knowledge of two official languages, passive knowledge of the third, and excellent English (minimum C1).

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to work for the Swiss Confederation and shape the national data ecosystem.
• Leadership of a team of more than 140 qualified professionals.
• Strategic influence at the highest level of public administration.
• Flexible work arrangements combining office presence in Neuchâtel with remote work.