President of a Renowned Educational Institution

Location: Switzerland, Schaffhausen

About the Role

We are looking for a highly accomplished academic and industry leader to drive research, strategy, and institutional development at a promising technological institute. The ideal candidate will bring extensive expertise in software engineering, AI, distributed systems, and applied machine learning, along with a proven track record of securing research funding and shaping high-impact initiatives.

This role will oversee the institution’s research agenda, industry and government partnerships, operational structure, and strategic decision-making processes. The selected individual will play a critical role in shaping the future of research, education, and technology within the institution.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Research Oversight

• Develop and execute the institute’s research and business strategy.
• Lead high-impact research initiatives in AI, software engineering, distributed systems, and related fields.
• Oversee accreditation processes and compliance with educational regulations.

Institutional & Industry Engagement

• Strengthen collaborations with industry partners, academic institutions, and government entities.
• Foster cross-organizational partnerships to advance research, education, and innovation.
• Engage with leading academics globally to enhance research networks.

Executive & Governance Responsibilities

• Act as a key member of the Executive Committee of the Governing Board, contributing to strategic and budgetary decisions.
• Serve as a direct report to the Provost and provide leadership to professors and administrative teams.
• Participate in strategic advisory and oversight committees to guide institutional development.

Financial Growth & Funding Initiatives

• Lead fundraising efforts through government relations and industry partnerships.
• Secure research funding from external sources, leveraging an extensive global network.
• Advise on investment strategies in deep technology and educational innovation.

Academic & Talent Development

• Develop and implement KPIs for academic and administrative performance.
• Support faculty recruitment and ensure staffing aligns with strategic goals.
• Enhance student recruitment, scholarship programs, and career development initiatives.

New Research Department Creation

• Establish and oversee a new department dedicated to pioneering research in:

- Software Engineering

- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

- Robotics & Metaverse Technologies

- Neuroscience & Cognitive Psychology

• Collaborate with research and technology leaders to shape the department’s focus and impact.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Master's degree of an accredited university or university of applied science in the area of computer science, engineering, or similar; PhD highly desired.
• Fellow of ACM and IEEE, with distinguished contributions to software engineering and distributed systems highly desired.
• At least five (5) years of extensive international leadership experience in academia, research, and industry across multiple continents through professorships and/or senior roles across diverse higher education systems.
• Proven success in securing multi-million-dollar research funding and in the broader area of business development.
• Strong track record of mentoring PhD students as a professor in the relevant area with successful academic and industry placements (at least eight (8) years of professional experience).
• Previous experience in senior academic governance and institutional leadership.
• Recognized thought leader in AI, formal methods, ubiquitous computing, and applied machine learning.
• Fluent English language skills.

All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost discretion.