Managing Director / CEO (70–100%)

Do you believe we can and should do more to foster an open and digitally literate society? Are you convinced that we need open data, open source and open knowledge for responsible AI? Do you want to lead the empowerment of the Swiss open data community? If you answer yes to all of these questions, we may be looking for you!

Opendata.ch is the Swiss non-profit association driving the movement for open data, digital commons, and responsible technology. Through flagship initiatives like open data hackathons (GLAMhack), the Prototype Fund Switzerland and public advocacy, we empower civil society, government, and industry to build a transparent, innovative, and democratic digital future.

As Director you are responsible for the operational management and continued development of Opendata.ch. The Board sets the strategic direction – in implementing it and in developing your own topics you have plenty of room to shape things. As a director, you move within a vibrant network across government, academia, politics and civil society. After your first 12 months it should be visible that Opendata.ch is well organised, that the strategy is having an impact, and that the organisation continues to develop together with its community.

• Operations & Leadership: You lead the office and ensure our organisation operates reliably and professionally. You pitch in yourself when needed—from project development to events and communication.
• Strategy & Implementation: Together with the team, you turn the Board's strategic priorities into concrete activities and projects.
• Project Management & Innovation: You coordinate and develop ongoing projects while initiating new ones. You stay aligned with developments in key areas for the association, such as open data, open source, data policy and responsible digitalisation, integrating relevant topics into Opendata.ch.
• Fundraising & Sustainability: You expand the funding base of Opendata.ch and, together with the Board, unlock new projects, partnerships, and revenue streams.
• Representation & Ecosystem: You represent Opendata.ch to government, political entities, civil society, the digital industry, and other partners.
• Community & Network: You maintain an active dialogue with our community and continuously grow our network.
• Governance & Board Relations: You collaborate closely with the Board, particularly the presidency, ensuring seamless alignment between strategy, office operations, and the broader community.

Previous experience in a leadership role is not essential. What matters most is that you enjoy taking ownership, driving things forward, and working independently. You thrive in a small, dynamic organisation that continuously evolves with its projects and new opportunities.

• Project & Organizational Experience: Proven track record in project management with a passion for steering initiatives from concept to execution in agile, self-directed environments.
• Domain Expertise: Solid foundation in open data, open source, open knowledge, and a keen interest in digital policy and data governance.
• Public Sector & Ecosystem Touchpoints: Sound understanding of or direct experience collaborating with government and public administration entities.
• Practical & Agile Mindset: Pragmatic, proactive approach—you take initiative without waiting for direction, navigate ambiguity with ease, and manage shifting priorities under pressure.
• Outward-Facing & Communicative Drive: Open, engaging personality who enjoys representing Opendata.ch at conferences, building networks across sectors, and fostering community.
• Language Skills: Professional proficiency in German or French with a working knowledge of the other, alongside strong English communication skills.

Opendata.ch offers high autonomy, short decision paths, and direct responsibility—without rigid, pre-packaged structures. You are supported by a committed team, an active community, and a Board presidency that serves as your direct partner on strategic vision.

• A responsible leadership role with high creative freedom and short decision paths.

• A direct opportunity to shape the Swiss digital landscape in a purpose-driven environment.
• Flexible working conditions, including remote work options and an adaptable 70%–100% workload.
• Maximum salary of CHF 115'000 (at 100% workload).