Startup Manager | Swissnex in Boston and New York

Location: Boston, MA
Starting date: April 1, 2026
Status: Full-time (40 hrs/week)
Application Deadline: December 15, 2025

Swissnex in Boston and New York (www.swissnex.org/boston) creates opportunities for researchers, entrepreneurs, artists, designers, and other future-makers to expand their reach and make meaningful, collaborative connections with the top innovators in Switzerland and North America. Our mission is to support the visibility of Swiss institutions and individuals and to bring the very best in Swiss tech, research, art, and design to the US. 

Our activities include:

• Working closely with universities and research labs to promote global exchange and collaboration through events, partnerships, and network-building
• Accelerating startups and assisting entrepreneurs in entering the North American market
• Advising corporations, non-profits, and international organizations on market trends and best practices
• Collaborating with artists and designers on innovative projects at the intersection of art and science
• Supporting Swiss innovators and thought leaders in expanding their North American presence

With offices in Boston and New York, we are part of the global Swissnex network, an initiative of Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation with other locations in Brazil, China, India, San Francisco, and Japan.

A key aspect of Swissnex’s mission is to support Swiss startups as they explore opportunities in the United States. Swissnex is a core component of several startup and entrepreneurship programs based in Switzerland, fostering innovation through internationalization.

The Startup Manager will work with everyone from entrepreneurial students to seasoned serial entrepreneurs, as well as with investors, governmental partners, service providers, and all types of incubation and acceleration platforms, both in Switzerland and the US.

The Boston-based Startup Manager will be part of the Innovation team, reporting to the Deputy CEO / Head of Programs and working hand-in-hand with the two Innovation Leads based in Boston and New York. As part of the Innovation team, the Startup Manager ensures that all startup activities of Swissnex in Boston and New York run smoothly from initiation to execution and closing. In addition, the Startup Manager will support other innovation activities of Swissnex, for example with corporate partners, in Boston and New York.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Startups (70%)

• Supporting, planning, developing, and executing a variety of startup and entrepreneurship programs — from our “market entry” and “market validation” camps to bootcamps, meetings, and pitch events
• Providing tailored support to individual Swiss startups, helping them to achieve specific goals in the US
• Pitching our programs to potential startup participants in Switzerland 
• Nurturing the network of Swissnex in Boston and beyond
• Creating and filing administrative, financial, and evaluation reports for internal accountability and for partners
• Coordinating startup programming with the Innovation Leads in Boston and New York and the rest of the global Swissnex network
• Carrying out market research, data mining, reporting, marketing, and event planning

Other (30%)

• Supporting the Innovation Leads in Boston and New York with a variety of other innovation related activities, including events, workshops, delegation visits, and desk research
• Supporting the Swissnex in Boston and New York team with transversal projects and large-scale initiatives, including communications around startup and innovation projects
• Working closely with the Communications and Operations teams to create impactful and well-organized campaigns, events, and outreach related to innovation and startup activities

This role balances frequent interactions with experts and prospective program participants with a very hands-on and detail-oriented approach to project management — all on a tight timeline.

To be successful in this role, an ideal candidate should have:

• BS/BA degree in science, engineering, business, or a related field, or equivalent work experience. A background in life sciences is a plus.
• 1-2 years of initial experiences related to startups and entrepreneurship, or a specific high-tech sector.
• Networking savvy with the ability to thrive in an international, multicultural, and interdisciplinary environment.
• Comfort nurturing contacts with individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds, positions, ranks, and responsibilities.
• Knowledge of and networks in the Swiss and/or Boston startup and innovation ecosystems is a bonus.
• Team-player mentality with high levels of responsibility, reliability, curiosity, and interest in a wide range of topics.
• Should be forward-thinking, flexible, and self-motivated.
• Strong organizational skills with a proactive, hands-on, and pragmatic attitude. Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment, with serious attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.
• Excellent command of both written and spoken English. Knowledge of at least one Swiss national language is a plus. 
• Ability to work outside regular office hours when needed, mainly for events and visiting groups.
• Strong enthusiasm for the Swissnex mission.
• Due to our consular status, applicants must either be Swiss citizens, US citizens, or US permanent residents.

• A full-time position (40 hours per week) based in Cambridge, Massachusetts
• Hybrid work schedule with a mix of in-office and local home office
• Start date of April 1, 2026
• Compensation range of $70,000 – $75,000 per annum (for US applicants subject to US taxes). For Swiss applicants, who are not subject to US taxes, the salary range will be adjusted to reflect an equivalent purchasing power (i.e., a lower range)
• Four weeks annual vacation, and a mixture of US and Swiss holidays
• Competitive benefits package including: Employer-matched 401(K), and 80% or 85% employer-paid medical and dental plans (depending on the options)
• Continuing education possibilities and a platform to grow your skills, professional experience, and network
• A multicultural, creative, and inspiring team-oriented work environment

Please apply by December 15th, 2025. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until then. Questions may be directed to [email protected].

Location:Swissnex in San Francisco
Status: Full-time, 40 hours/week
Start Date: March 1st, 2026
Duration: 12 months
Reports to: Innovation & Entrepreneurship Lead

Do you want to join the global Swissnex network and build meaningful connections across startups, science, education, the arts, and innovation in both Silicon Valley and Switzerland? This is your chance!

In your role as Startup Programs Associate, you support the design, coordination, and delivery of Swissnex programs in entrepreneurship and innovation. You help bring to life startup camps, investor programs, and other initiatives – ensuring each program reflects Swissnex’s mission and meets the needs of our partners and participants. As a core member of a small, collaborative team, you work closely with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders, bringing a spirit of initiative, adaptability, and professionalism to everything you do.

You work closely with the Startup Program Manager and the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Lead to plan and execute ongoing programs, and to conduct research and content creation such as trend analyses, benchmarking, and insight reports. You also support the team in engaging our startup alumni and contribute to expanding the Swissnex mentorship program across different verticals, including startups, academia, and the creative industries.

This position offers unique exposure to international experts, startups, and thought leaders, as well as the chance to learn about program design, event planning, and project management. You will have the opportunity to shape impactful initiatives, gain firsthand experience in global innovation, and grow your professional network within Silicon Valley’s entrepreneurial community.

• Program Building & Implementation (60%)
• Alumni and Mentor Community Support (20%)
• Operational support, special projects, and other duties (20%)

• Excellent English communication skills (written and spoken)
• Some experience with project management, stakeholder management, content creation, and/or event production within an innovation or startup context.
• Experience engaging with the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Switzerland or the US. This can include attendance/participation at events and/or student organizations.
• Demonstrated interest in science, art, innovation, and entrepreneurship/startups.
• Comfort using and exploring new digital tools and technologies.
• Commitment to supporting a collaborative team environment.
• Team player with a creative, curious, and solution-oriented mindset.
• A person who identifies with terms like problem-solver, proactive, independent, self-motivated, collaborative, energetic, and detail-oriented.
• Strong organizational skills and a hands-on, execution-oriented mindset; thrives on planning, coordinating, and seeing projects through to completion.
• Flexibility to work evening hours as needed for events.
• Comfortable standing for extended periods during events and able to lift up to 25 pounds as needed.

• You are a Swiss citizen or have a valid Swiss work permit for the duration of the internship. Unfortunately, since we are based in the U.S., applicants with B permits that were issued for academic study are not eligible, even if your permit says it is valid for work in Switzerland.
• You are currently studying in a university or university of applied sciences (hochschule / haute école) towards a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, OR the last university degree (Bachelor/Master) is not older than one year at the beginning of the internship. Unfortunately, no exceptions are possible.
• You have not gained professional experience in the field of your studies.
• The total period of all internships within the Swiss Confederation is limited to 6 months for candidates who have not yet obtained their Bachelor’s degree, or 12 months for those with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. The total includes this internship as well as former «Hochschulpraktikum»/«Stage académique».

USD 3’500/month

• 20 days of vacation, 12+ annual holidays, sick leave.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Gain hands-on experience in one of the world’s most dynamic innovation hubs, expand your professional network across Switzerland and Silicon Valley, and develop event management skills in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Swissnex in San Francisco connects the dots between Switzerland and the U.S. West Coast in education, research, innovation, and the arts. We foster international collaboration and empower next generation innovators to create futures in which the planet and society thrives. In service of this goal, our dynamic and international team produces academic, corporate and creative industry programs, startup bootcamps, events and much more.

As an employer, we established a collaborative and purpose-driven team culture and care about an environment that encourages innovation, experimentation, and creative problem-solving. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential for fostering creativity and achieving our organizational goals.

We look forward to receiving your application. Please apply through this link and include both your resume (CV) in English and a customized one-page cover letter in English that answers: 1) why you are interested in this position and why you want to work at Swissnex in San Francisco, and 2) the experiences, personal qualities or strengths that make you well-suited for the position.

Deadline to apply: November 23, 2025

Startup Manager | Swissnex in Boston and New York

Location: Boston, MA
Starting date: April 1, 2026
Status: Full-time (40 hrs/week)
Application Deadline: December 15, 2025

Swissnex in Boston and New York (www.swissnex.org/boston) creates opportunities for researchers, entrepreneurs, artists, designers, and other future-makers to expand their reach and make meaningful, collaborative connections with the top innovators in Switzerland and North America. Our mission is to support the visibility of Swiss institutions and individuals and to bring the very best in Swiss tech, research, art, and design to the US. 

Our activities include:

• Working closely with universities and research labs to promote global exchange and collaboration through events, partnerships, and network-building
• Accelerating startups and assisting entrepreneurs in entering the North American market
• Advising corporations, non-profits, and international organizations on market trends and best practices
• Collaborating with artists and designers on innovative projects at the intersection of art and science
• Supporting Swiss innovators and thought leaders in expanding their North American presence

With offices in Boston and New York, we are part of the global Swissnex network, an initiative of Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation with other locations in Brazil, China, India, San Francisco, and Japan.

A key aspect of Swissnex’s mission is to support Swiss startups as they explore opportunities in the United States. Swissnex is a core component of several startup and entrepreneurship programs based in Switzerland, fostering innovation through internationalization.

The Startup Manager will work with everyone from entrepreneurial students to seasoned serial entrepreneurs, as well as with investors, governmental partners, service providers, and all types of incubation and acceleration platforms, both in Switzerland and the US.

The Boston-based Startup Manager will be part of the Innovation team, reporting to the Deputy CEO / Head of Programs and working hand-in-hand with the two Innovation Leads based in Boston and New York. As part of the Innovation team, the Startup Manager ensures that all startup activities of Swissnex in Boston and New York run smoothly from initiation to execution and closing. In addition, the Startup Manager will support other innovation activities of Swissnex, for example with corporate partners, in Boston and New York.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Startups (70%)

• Supporting, planning, developing, and executing a variety of startup and entrepreneurship programs — from our “market entry” and “market validation” camps to bootcamps, meetings, and pitch events
• Providing tailored support to individual Swiss startups, helping them to achieve specific goals in the US
• Pitching our programs to potential startup participants in Switzerland 
• Nurturing the network of Swissnex in Boston and beyond
• Creating and filing administrative, financial, and evaluation reports for internal accountability and for partners
• Coordinating startup programming with the Innovation Leads in Boston and New York and the rest of the global Swissnex network
• Carrying out market research, data mining, reporting, marketing, and event planning

Other (30%)

• Supporting the Innovation Leads in Boston and New York with a variety of other innovation related activities, including events, workshops, delegation visits, and desk research
• Supporting the Swissnex in Boston and New York team with transversal projects and large-scale initiatives, including communications around startup and innovation projects
• Working closely with the Communications and Operations teams to create impactful and well-organized campaigns, events, and outreach related to innovation and startup activities

This role balances frequent interactions with experts and prospective program participants with a very hands-on and detail-oriented approach to project management — all on a tight timeline.

To be successful in this role, an ideal candidate should have:

• BS/BA degree in science, engineering, business, or a related field, or equivalent work experience. A background in life sciences is a plus.
• 1-2 years of initial experiences related to startups and entrepreneurship, or a specific high-tech sector.
• Networking savvy with the ability to thrive in an international, multicultural, and interdisciplinary environment.
• Comfort nurturing contacts with individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds, positions, ranks, and responsibilities.
• Knowledge of and networks in the Swiss and/or Boston startup and innovation ecosystems is a bonus.
• Team-player mentality with high levels of responsibility, reliability, curiosity, and interest in a wide range of topics.
• Should be forward-thinking, flexible, and self-motivated.
• Strong organizational skills with a proactive, hands-on, and pragmatic attitude. Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment, with serious attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.
• Excellent command of both written and spoken English. Knowledge of at least one Swiss national language is a plus. 
• Ability to work outside regular office hours when needed, mainly for events and visiting groups.
• Strong enthusiasm for the Swissnex mission.
• Due to our consular status, applicants must either be Swiss citizens, US citizens, or US permanent residents.

• A full-time position (40 hours per week) based in Cambridge, Massachusetts
• Hybrid work schedule with a mix of in-office and local home office
• Start date of April 1, 2026
• Compensation range of $70,000 – $75,000 per annum (for US applicants subject to US taxes). For Swiss applicants, who are not subject to US taxes, the salary range will be adjusted to reflect an equivalent purchasing power (i.e., a lower range)
• Four weeks annual vacation, and a mixture of US and Swiss holidays
• Competitive benefits package including: Employer-matched 401(K), and 80% or 85% employer-paid medical and dental plans (depending on the options)
• Continuing education possibilities and a platform to grow your skills, professional experience, and network
• A multicultural, creative, and inspiring team-oriented work environment

Please apply by December 15th, 2025. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until then. Questions may be directed to [email protected].

The Academic Engagement and Arts Program Manager is part of the programs team at Swissnex in Boston and New York and supports the internationalization of Swiss stakeholders in academia and creative industries on the US East Coast. Typical tasks include ideation, planning, execution, and stewardship of new programs and initiatives that serve Swissnex’s mission, as well as executing, managing and developing existing activities and relationships. 

Our ideal candidate will be a creative, intellectually curious, highly responsible project manager and event organizer, with a positive can-do and hands-on attitude. An ideal candidate will have 1-3 years of experience in working with the academic and/or arts sector or in event management.

Responsibilities:

• Support and plan activities, projects, and events with academic partners in Switzerland and the US. Manage both local and Swiss stakeholders and initiate and respond to related outreach.

• Event ideation, planning and execution in coordination with and under the overall supervision of the Head of Programs.

• Support the Head of Creative Industries in activities and programs at the intersection of science and art in the Boston area.

• Manage existing programming and partnerships under the supervision of the Head of Programs.

• Network cultivation: maintain and expand existing relationships with Swiss and Boston-area stakeholders in the fields of higher education, research, and creative industries.

• Administrative tasks related to budgeting for programs, management of cloud and server-based materials, and documentation for knowledge transfers.

• Support other teams at Swissnex (Innovation, Communications, and Operations) on a project basis as needed.

Requirements

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in any subject or equivalent experience gained through work

• Prior professional experience with any of the following organizations: higher education, diplomatic representations, nonprofit organizations, art, science and design, government, or small mission-driven organizations

• Experience with networking and event management, hospitality or logistics management

Languages:

• Excellent communication and writing skills in English

• Some fluency in at least one Swiss language a bonus for this role

Organizational Skills:

• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with a proactive, hands-on, and can-do attitude. Very strong attention to detail

• Able to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment

• Able to respond quickly and professionally to the unexpected

Technical Skills:

• At ease with basic IT and other office technology management. Strong computer skills (Google Suite, MS Office, etc.)

• Proven experience working with teams and managing projects

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.

• Starting salary of 70,000-75,000 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 Cambridge, Massachusetts location near Harvard Square 

Swissnex is the global network connecting Switzerland and the world 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. We thereby contribute to strengthening Switzerland’s profile as a world-leading innovation hot spot. Swissnex is an initiative of Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) and is part of the Swiss Confederation’s network abroad managed by the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). The activities of Swissnex are based on a collaborative approach, relying on public and private partnerships and funding.

The deadline to apply is November 21, 2025. Please apply via the link below, and include both your resume (CV) and a cover letter tailored to this position that details your qualifications and interest in the position.

We are looking for a young professional with strong research skills, and excellent Chinese and English command, ready to support Swissnex in China with reporting and innovation scouting.

As Junior Project Manager you will conduct research and innovation scouting and take a deep dive into emerging trends while gaining real-world experience at an official representation of Switzerland. We are looking for a bright, self-driven and ambitious team player with exceptional research, writing, and organizational skills. The ideal candidate can work across disciplines, can embrace change, and is ready to help us bring Swiss excellence to the next level. You will join a dynamic and supportive team and work in an international, creative, and collaborative environment at our Shanghai office.

• Scouting and Research: Under the supervision of the innovation lead, conduct market research and ecosystem mapping to facilitate Swiss startups’ validation and entry in China. Contribute to our diverse mandates and agreements by identifying trends and key players in various science and technology fields, by conducting research, innovation and academic scouting, and by writing and editing reports for our partners and stakeholders. Act as point of contact for external partners.
• Event and Project Management: Assist in the planning, execution, and follow-up of science, technology and innovation-related events (tech fairs, webinars, conferences, study trips, workshops, etc.), including helping manage project logistics and documentation.
• Startup Relations: Assist the startup manager and colleagues with the promotion of our startup programs and building rapport and follow-up with Swiss startups and entrepreneurs. Identify and engage with relevant partners, clients, and stakeholders in China and support the coordination of meetings and visits.
• Communications: In collaboration with the communications team, assist with content for social media posts as well as tech-related articles.
• Outreach and Networking: Identify and engage with relevant partners, clients, and stakeholders in China and support the coordination of meetings and visits. Proactively cultivate and develop a network of partners and stakeholders. Attend relevant events and conferences.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Chinese citizenship, with legal eligibility for full-time employment in China under the terms of the PRC labor law.
• Strong command of English (spoken and written) is required.
• Ideal for young professionals or recent graduates with 1–2 years of experience, particularly those with stakeholder engagement skills—such as supporting outreach to Chinese partners—or familiarity with industry networks, preferably in cleantech or healthcare.
• Strong research skills with a willingness to immerse yourself in various tech- and innovation-related topics.
• Interest in startup and entrepreneurship ecosystem as well as in science, technology, and innovation.
• Fast-thinking, organized, reliable, and detail-oriented.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team.

• Cover letter (letter of motivation) and CV
• Copies of university diplomas, transcript of records, work certificates, and letters of reference if available

As Japan’s first Consulate with focus on Science Diplomacy, the Consulate of Switzerland in Osaka, Swissnex in Japan, connects Switzerland, Japan and the world in education, research, and innovation. Officially opened in September 2023, the new Consulate is looking for an outgoing, creative individual with an affinity for science & entrepreneurship and outstanding organizational and social skills to join its dynamic team.

• Starting date: Immediately
• Location: Consulate of Switzerland in Osaka, Japan
• Full-time one-year contract

• Event and Project Management: Plan and execute in-house as well as external activities and events, including logistics, fundraising, and editing of reports.
• Startup Relations: Promotion of our startup programs including collection of success stories.
• Communications: Project-related and general communications.
• Research: Identify trends in science, technology, and innovation; edit reports.
• Networking: Cultivate a network of partners. Attend relevant events and conferences.
• Other duties as assigned (e.g., support the team with special events and delegation visits)

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, background in Hospitality/Business highly welcomed.
• Excellent command of written and spoken English; Business Japanese a big plus.
• Excellent problem-solving and team-playing skills, as well as proactive, independent and self- motivated with strong social skills and attention to details.
• Computer literacy (Mac OS, MS Office, Google Suite, Zoho, Zoom, Social Media, etc.).
• Interest in innovation, startups, science, art & digital world as well as in Switzerland & Japan.

• 20-day vacation, designated holidays, and sick leave
• Competitive benefit package including social insurance
• Continuing education possibilities

• Must be a Swiss citizen, a Japanese citizen, or a legal resident of Japan.
• Relocation & accommodation will not be covered (local employment conditions).

Did we raise your interest? Then we look forward to hearing more about you!

Please send your full application, including:

• CV/resume and a letter of motivation
• Copies of recommendation letters, work certificates and university diplomas, including transcript of records