Head of People Operations
Founded in 1991, CSCS, the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre, develops and provides the key supercomputing capabilities required to solve important problems to science and/or society. The centre enables world-class research with a scientific user lab that is available to domestic and international researchers through a transparent, peer-reviewed allocation process. CSCS's resources are open to academia and are available as well to users from industry and the business sector. The centre with 130 employees is operated by ETH Zurich and is located in Lugano with additional offices in Zurich. The work location is Lugano, however frequent presence in Zürich is requested.
CSCS has just undergone a fundamental structural and cultural transformation to set itself up for a leading role in the future of Extreme Computing & Artificial Intelligence. It is now in a critical phase of refinement and consolidation to operate on a new level, having committed to a value-driven culture and leadership principles as well as a growth mindset. CSCS is uniquely positioned as a research infrastructure for Swiss science. Being embedded in the ETH Zürich, it gives access to world-class science while competing for top-tier talent that is equally in high demand within the private sector. CSCS is organized in flat, decentralized networks rather than hierarchy and matrix, with about 130 staff members. The line management is guaranteed by units of 15 to 30 staff members reporting to Unit Heads having a dual role: technical leadership and coaching of the staff members. The staff members are assigned to so called Working Structures that carry out the effective work. Currently we are experiencing an unprecedented surge of attention and significance, which makes it imperative to build personnel structures strategically and carefully, mapping individual needs for development with the growing and evolving needs of the CSCS organization, and building a healthy workforce.
Main responsibilities as Head of People Operations:
Build a comprehensive talent strategy and streamline accordingly the human resources (HR) operations in close collaboration with ETH Zurich.
Support and coach all key leaders with personnel responsibility in topics of leadership. Guide teams, through consolidation efforts after fundamental restructuring while being an advocate for a strong value-driven culture.
Key requirements of the candidate:
- In-depth knowledge in leading (with high EQ) high-performing and technically skilled staff.
- Strong background in strategic HR leadership and in the development and operation of efficient and effective HR services. We’re looking for someone to help us create a comprehensive personnel strategy to match our operational strategy.
- Experience in working in network organizations, with multiple key stakeholders, decentralized decision-making processes and flat hierarchies.
- Previous experience in designing and leading in transformation processes and a deep understanding of personnel needs and wants.
- Proven track-record of value-driven leadership and strong cultural fit.
- Strong connections and network within the technology and computing realm are preferred, with the ability to portray thought-leadership and act as an ambassador for our mission.
Additional considerations:
- We are committed to finding stable solutions together with ETH that fit the complex needs of our organization and create mutual benefits.
- Following the transformation process, we are determined to keep up the momentum and are looking for an experienced candidate who knows how to navigate pre-, during and post-transformation.
- We understand culture to be the foundation for lasting success and are looking for someone eager to showcase leadership as a role-model.
- We are committed to create an environment where high-performance talent meets a strong mission and vision to create scientific value for the greater good.
- ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent and flexible working conditions.
- You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.
- We value the diversity of our team and, to further enhance the diversity of our workforce, we particularly encourage women to apply.
Please include the following documents with your application:
- Motivation letter
- CV
- Relevant certificates and diplomas
Please address your application to Mrs Stephanie Frequente, HR Partner, Via Trevano 131, 6900 Lugano.
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
Further information about CSCS can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr Michele De Lorenzi, Deputy Director, Write an email (no applications).
For recruitment services, the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.
