Description

Executive DirectorCompany DescriptionThe Société du Quartier Nord de l EPFL (SQNE) is the driving force behind the hospitality and influence of the EPFL Ecublens campus. It operates an ecosystem including the SwissTech Convention Center, a global technological flagship, as well as a comprehensive service hub including a hotel, shops, and student housing. By leading a team of approx. 30 people with an annual turnover of 20 MCHF, the SQNE ensures agile management at the intersection of the academic and business worlds. Its mission is to offer excellent infrastructure to elevate the visibility of research and education to the highest level.Position ObjectivesIn the context of the retirement of the current incumbent, you will take the reins of the SQNE, a company integrated into a prestigious ecosystem, to shape its future and meet the challenge: Transform the SwissTech Convention Center into an essential venue, maximize the use of spaces linked to the Housing Center, while orchestrating the synergy between commercial performance and campus life. Under the impetus of the Company Board, you will lead an expert team with the ambition to innovate in a complex and highly competitive environment. This is a rare opportunity to leave your mark on a district where every event contributes to the influence of an elite institution. Apply now!ResponsibilitiesCommercial Strategy- Make the SwissTech Convention Center the global benchmark for technological congress centers, while ensuring the maximum use of the Housing Center (including the hotel, shops, parking, and student housing).- Pilot the occupancy rate (academic/private balance) and develop integrated service offers (accommodation, catering).Institutional & Ecosystem Relations- Embody the SQNE before the EPFL, the UNIL, political authorities, and Swiss economic actors, in close collaboration with the EPFL.- Guarantee the balance between commercial objectives and the academic life of the EPFL campus.Management & Technical Operations- Supervise state-of-the-art infrastructure (modularity, hybrid solutions) and guarantee site security.- Pilot relationships with key partners (facility management, security).Financial Management & Governance- Develop budgets, ensure profitability, and evolve the business plan in a competitive environment.- Collaborate closely with the Company Board on performance indicators and strategic vision.Profile Sought- Confirmed experience: Minimum 10 years in the management of large-scale sites (congress centers, MICE hubs, or luxury hospitality) with total responsibility for the P&L.- Sector expertise: Proven track record in congress management and management of multidisciplinary teams (sales, technical, facility & security).- Education & languages: Master in Management or Hotel Management (MBA is a plus); perfect command of French and English (German is an advantage).- Vision & Strategy: Ability to anticipate market trends (sustainability) and to pilot transversal projects.- Soft skills: Diplomacy and interpersonal skills to navigate in an academic/political environment, impeccable service culture, and strong resilience.- Major asset: Prior experience in an environment linked to higher education or urban development.Start date: To be agreedActivity rate: 100%Contract type: PermanentSubmission deadline: May 7Application files must include a complete CV, a cover letter, a one-page A4 vision statement, and relevant certificates. jidfcae086aen jit0417aen jpiy26aen