Event Manager / Event Manageress

Event Manager at ETH AI Center

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

As ETH's central hub for artificial intelligence, the ETH AI Center brings together researchers from various fields to foster research excellence, industry innovation, and AI entrepreneurship. Founded in autumn 2020, the Center serves a rapidly growing community of leading AI researchers, industry partners, and startups, promoting trustworthy, accessible, and inclusive AI systems for the benefit of society.

We are looking for a dynamic personality to lead our event portfolio, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and strengthening the bonds within the wider Zurich AI community. As an Event Manager at the ETH AI Center, you will engage in both strategic and operational tasks in close cooperation with the Executive Office, faculty members, and external stakeholders.

The position is available from January 2026 or by agreement, with an initial contract lasting one year and the possibility for renewal thereafter.

Project Background

The AI+X Summit and the Zurich AI Festival are flagship events of the ETH AI Center. These events unite researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to explore how AI transforms various aspects of our lives, showcasing cutting-edge research and promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration. The Festival engages the public through talks, exhibitions, and creative formats, offering workshops tailored to SMEs and specific research domains.

As our Event Manager, you will lead the charge in continuing this success story by designing impactful experiences, fostering strong partnerships, and shaping Switzerland's position as a global hub for trustworthy, human-centered AI.

Job Description

This is a hands-on role. You will manage every detail from logistics and on-site operations to catering, technical setup, and volunteer coordination. We are looking for someone who thrives under pressure and takes pride in transforming great ideas into seamless experiences. Responsibilities include:

• Elevate our flagship events – the AI+X Summit and the Zurich AI Festival – in scale, reach, and impact.
• Take ownership of event budgets, ensuring efficient planning, cost control, and strategic resource allocation.
• Provide structure and guidance for events by defining processes, standards, and best practices for the entire team.
• Curate and design events bridging industry and academia across all departments of ETH.
• Coordinate the ETH AI Center's presence at major AI gatherings, such as AMLD, AI for Good, and AI House Davos.
• Promote events via social media, our web pages, and in collaboration with our communication specialists.
• Collaborate closely with academic and industry partners, affiliated startups, and the broader European research community.
• Manage and mentor a team of student assistants supporting operational aspects of ETH AI Center events.
• Monitor emerging trends and identify relevant topics for our community of AI researchers and entrepreneurs.

Profile

• A communicative, flexible, independent, and reliable personality with strong networking and stakeholder management skills.
• Proven track record in event management and related fields such as communications, project management, and community management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and German.
• Persistence, drive, and strong self-organization, combined with a creative mindset that turns opportunities into action.
• Genuine curiosity and enthusiasm for technological trends and their societal impact.
• Experience in fast-paced academic and/or corporate research environments.
• An inclusive team player who fosters a culture of constructive feedback and open communication.
• A university degree (Bachelor's or Master's) ideally complements your profile.

Workplace

Become part of ETH Zurich, where you will not only enrich your professional development but also contribute to significant societal change. Expect numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension plans.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

At ETH Zurich, we encourage an inclusive culture that promotes equality of opportunity and values diversity. Our commitment to creating a fair and open environment allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is a core value, and we continuously work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For more information about the ETH AI Center, please visit our website, or reach out to Ms. Helga Rietz via email at helga.rietz@ai.ethz.ch (no application documents will be accepted via email).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and our direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Our university promotes independent thinking and provides an inspiring environment for over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries.