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 unites researchers focused on AI foundations, applications, and implications across various departments. We promote research excellence, industry innovation, and AI entrepreneurship to create trustworthy, accessible, and inclusive AI systems for the benefit of society. Since its inception in autumn 2020, the ETH AI Center has become a rapidly growing community of leading AI researchers, industry partners, and startups.

We are seeking a dynamic individual to lead our event portfolio, fostering a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration and strengthening connections within Zurich's AI community. As an Event Manager at the ETH AI Center, you will engage in both strategic and operational tasks, collaborating closely with the Executive Office, faculty, fellows, leading AI companies, and other external stakeholders.

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

Project Background

The AI+X Summit and the Zurich AI Festival are the flagship events of the ETH AI Center. The Summit serves as a vibrant platform that brings together researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to explore how AI transforms science, technology, and society. It showcases cutting-edge research and cross-disciplinary collaboration with partners such as ETH AI Center, UZH.ai, and ZHAW, alongside our expanding network of industry partners, startups, and VCs. The Festival engages the public through talks, exhibitions, and creative formats, along with workshops tailored to SMEs and specific research domains.

As our Event Manager, you will drive this success story by designing impactful experiences, building strong partnerships, and enhancing Switzerland's position as a global hub for trustworthy, human-centered AI.

Job Description

This is a hands-on role where you'll manage every detail from floor plans and logistics to catering, technical setups, and volunteer coordination. We are looking for an individual who thrives on execution, remains composed under pressure, and takes pride in turning great ideas into seamless experiences. You will:

• Enhance 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 utilization.
• Provide structure, guidance, and counsel for events throughout the year by defining processes, standards, and best practices for the team.
• Curate and design events that bridge industry and academia across all departments of ETH.
• Coordinate the ETH AI Center's presence at leading AI gatherings, such as AMLD, AI for Good, and AI House Davos.
• Communicate and promote events through social media, our web pages, and in collaboration with our communication specialists.
• Collaborate closely with academic and industry partners, affiliated startups, local business development offices, and the broader European research community.
• Manage, supervise, and mentor a team of student assistants supporting the operational aspects of ETH AI Center events.
• Monitor emerging trends and identify relevant topics for our community of AI researchers, entrepreneurs, and companies.

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, complemented by a creative and innovative mindset that transforms opportunities into action.
• Genuine curiosity and enthusiasm for technological and scientific trends and their societal impact.
• Experience in fast-paced academic and/or corporate research environments.
• An inclusive team player who values direct communication and cultivates a culture of constructive feedback.
• A university degree (Bachelor’s or Master’s) ideally complements your profile.

Workplace

Become a part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive societal change. You can expect numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, access to car sharing, a wide array of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare options, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity, valuing diversity, and nurturing a working environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to discover how we maintain a fair and open atmosphere that allows everyone to grow and thrive. Sustainability is central to our mission, and we are dedicated to achieving a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.