Innovation and Entrepreneurship Lead - ref. r7169503

Swissnex in San Francisco

We are looking for an Innovation and Entrepreneurship Lead to manage a small team, (re)imagine new and existing programs, and to be our in-house expert on all things related to entrepreneurship and innovation. The ideal candidate is passionate about technology, startups and innovation, and is forward-thinking, impact-oriented, entrepreneurial and a solid networker, having experience working for/with the SF Bay Area and Swiss ecosystems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the ideation, design and implementation of new programs related to entrepreneurship (startups, entrepreneurship, VCs) and corporate innovation
• Independently execute program implementation, prioritizing partner satisfaction and meeting deadlines
• Provide guidance and support to startups and corporate innovators visiting Pier17, ensuring meaningful connections are made during their time in SF
• Coordinate Innovation-related activities at Swissnex, including residencies, public events, and tours, collaborating with the operations and program team to optimize experiences for Swissnex and its partners
• Steer communication, marketing and engagement with and about future, present and past program participants and the overall ecosystem in coordination with our communications team

• Manage a small team with a Program Manager and an intern
• Benchmarking for new and existing programs
• Manage the existing partnerships and develop new ones
• Ensure high quality of startup and innovation services, lead global coordination of the startup program and track feedback and success of alumni, including accurate documentation & reporting activities

• Proactively expand your relevant network (through engagement with the SF Bay Area and Swiss innovation ecosystems) and for all of Swissnex's activities
• Proactively contribute to the Swissnex Mentors community
• Support the programs team with implementation of all Swissnex programs (startup bootcamps, university collaborations etc.)
• Support in building a global innovation community

Will manage other people: Yes

Our ideal candidate:

• 4 to 5 years of relevant professional experience, ideally working within the innovation or startup ecosystem
• Brings a solid network within the Bay Area
• Experience in management and leadership
• Experience leading projects and using project management tools
• Experience with basic marketing, content development, and event planning is a plus
• Experience in building and maintaining a community is a plus
• Demonstrates excellent English language proficiency in both written and verbal communication
• Displays a proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration, coupled with a growth mindset and a positive attitude
• Passionate about innovation and creativity, the impact it can create and connecting people
• Willingness to experiment and go the extra mile
• Reliable "doer" with the ability to follow processes where necessary
• Ability to deal with uncertainty and thrive in a fast-paced, creative, and fluid work environment
• Bonus: experience working with Swiss stakeholders and navigating differences in mindset with the US

Even if you don't think you meet all of these requirements, but still think you would be a good fit for the position, please apply anyway.

What we offer:

• Opportunity to access Swissnex' network and to build your own network in the fields of startups, science, education, art and innovation in both the Silicon Valley Area and Switzerland
• Opportunity for professional growth
• Attend regular events and programs, weekly community lunches, and have access to education opportunities
• The chance to work with an experimental, engaged, and strengths-based team that is guided by the following principles: We are curious. We value people. We take action.
• Emphasis on work-life balance: We prioritize your personal time, fostering a supportive environment that values both productivity at work and well-deserved time off.
• Nonprofit compensation range depends on level of experience and country of residence for tax purposes. Benefits include: 4 weeks' vacation, 12+ annual holidays, sick leave, medical insurance.
• Salary range of $95K - $105K (for U.S. applicants subject to U.S. taxes); For Swiss applicants, who are not subject to U.S. taxes, the salary range will be adjusted to reflect an equivalent purchasing power (i.e., a lower range)