Innovation Manager

Job Information

Title: Innovation Manager
Location: New York City, USA (in person)
Starting date: as soon as possible
Status: full-time (40 hrs/week)
Deadline to Apply: October 21st, 2026 (applications considered on a rolling basis)

About Swissnex

Swissnex in Boston and New York connects the dots between Switzerland and the US East Coast in education, research, innovation, and the arts. Our mission is to support the outreach and active engagement of our partners in the international exchange of knowledge, ideas, and talent. In service of this goal, our dynamic and international team produces academic, corporate and creative industry programs, startup bootcamps, events, and much more.

We strive for a collaborative and purpose-driven culture and encourage innovation, experimentation, and creative problem-solving. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential for fostering creativity and achieving our organizational goals.

Learn more about Swissnex in Boston and New York.

Innovation Manager in New York City

The Innovation Manager develops and manages Swissnex’s entrepreneurship and innovation programs in New York City, building meaningful partnerships across startup, corporate and investor ecosystems. Reporting to the Deputy CEO / Head of Programs, the Innovation Manager designs and delivers high-impact initiatives in the United States, that inspire and enable Swiss innovation stakeholders to get to their next level. Our ideal candidate has 3+ years of experience in innovation, entrepreneurship, business development, or program management, is an excellent networker, and enjoys managing projects from concept to execution in a fast-paced and creative international environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manages the planning, development, and execution of entrepreneurship and innovation programs in New York City, including startup camps, corporate innovation programs, workshops, study tours, and networking events.
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with startups, investors, corporations, government agencies, incubators, accelerators, and other innovation ecosystem partners across Switzerland, New York City and beyond.
• Advises and supports Swiss startups and innovation stakeholders as they explore and enter the US market, providing strategic guidance, introductions, and ecosystem insights.
• Identifies new partnership opportunities in Switzerland and the US, initiating collaborative projects that advance Swissnex’s mission and strategic priorities.
• Serves as the primary relationship manager for assigned partners, ensuring high-quality program delivery, communication, reporting, and long-term engagement.
• Develops project budgets, manages program finances, and ensures accurate reporting, evaluation, and administrative documentation.
• Collaborates closely with the Boston-based Innovation Manager, Startup Manager, Communications, and Operations teams to seize opportunities across both locations.
• Represents Swissnex at conferences, networking events, and meetings, strengthening Swissnex’s visibility within the New York innovation ecosystem.
• Contributes to the development of Swissnex’s overall innovation strategy and supports cross-functional initiatives across entrepreneurship, science, education, art, and innovation.
• Helps maintain and expand Swissnex’s network through proactive outreach, relationship building, and thought stewardship.

Requirements

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, innovation, entrepreneurship, science, engineering, international affairs, or a related field; a master’s degree is a plus.
• At least 2 years of professional experience in innovation, entrepreneurship, startup support, ecosystem development, business development, or program management.
• Strong understanding of the startup and innovation ecosystem in either Switzerland or the US; knowing both is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to develop partnerships and build trusted relationships with stakeholders from diverse sectors and backgrounds.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Experience in organizing events, workshops, delegations, or innovation programs from planning through execution.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with curiosity, initiative, and a proactive, solutions-oriented approach.
• Ability to thrive in a multicultural, international, and interdisciplinary environment.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across teams.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with excellent written and spoken English. Knowledge of a Swiss national language (German, French, or Italian) is a plus.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings for events and partner engagements.

These requirements represent an ideal candidate, and those who meet most, but not all of the requirements are encouraged to apply.

Due to our consular status, all applicants must be either Swiss citizens, or US permanent residents or citizens. We are only able to sponsor visas for Swiss nationals, and are unable to provide any other sponsorship.

Benefits

• Starting salary of $78-85k yearly, depending on experience. This salary is for employees authorized to work in the US. For Swiss employees, whose salaries are not subject to US income taxes, the salary is adjusted downward to reflect the tax benefit.
• Four weeks’ vacation per year and select Swiss and US holidays
• Competitive benefits package including: Employer-matched 401(K), employer-subsidized medical and dental plans, and opportunities for continuing education
• A multicultural, creative, inspiring, stimulating, and team-oriented work environment
• A vibrant co-working space in the heart of New York City

To Apply

Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis. Please apply via the link below by October 21st, 2026 for full consideration. Include both your resume (CV) and a tailored cover letter that details your qualifications and interest in this position.

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