Head of Programme/Team Leader

Swisscontact is currently in the tendering process for the Swiss-Serbian Innovation Programme, funded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). If awarded, the programme is expected to start in Autumn 2026 and run until the end of 2030. The Head of Programme / Team Leader is a key senior role foreseen under the SECO tender for the implementation of Component 1 and overall programme coordination.

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

The Head of Programme / Team Leader provides overall strategic, technical and managerial leadership of the Swiss-Serbian Innovation Programme. The role ensures high-quality implementation of Component 1, effective coordination across programme components, and structured engagement with SECO, national institutions, and innovation ecosystem stakeholders.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide overall strategic leadership and ensure achievement of agreed programme objectives and results.
• Lead implementation of Component 1 in close cooperation with the Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovation (NITRA).
• Ensure effective coordination, coherence, learning and monitoring across all programme components.
• Act as the main strategic interlocutor with SECO, the Swiss Embassy, NITRA and other key stakeholders.
• Ensure sound financial management, planning, reporting and compliance with SECO requirements.
• Apply Project Cycle Management (PCM) and Results-Based Management (RBM) principles throughout implementation.
• Facilitate inclusive dialogue, consensus building and conflict-sensitive engagement among public and private actors.
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REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated long-term professional experience in international cooperation projects, including innovation ecosystem development, private sector development and/or trade promotion.
• Solid knowledge in the fields of innovation, private sector development and trade promotion.
• Proven professional experience and in-depth understanding of the Serbian innovation ecosystem and socio-economic context.
• Demonstrated capacity for strategic interaction with a wide range of stakeholders, including national and regional government, academia and the private sector.
• Proven skills in conflict analysis, negotiation and dialogue facilitation.
• Comprehensive experience in Project Cycle Management (PCM) and Results-Based Management (RBM).
• Confirmed excellency in English; knowledge of Serbian is a strong asset.
• Academic background at Master’s or PhD level and/or a relevant diploma or professional certification related to the mandate.

Swisscontact offers attractive working conditions in an international and multicultural context. We see our work as a joint effort in an agile organizational culture: mutual respect, trust and teamwork.

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply electronically:

• Curriculum Vitae, including two reference contacts
• A cover letter expressing the motivation to apply for this job. Do write an exceptional letter.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted and invited for an interview on a rolling basis. Swisscontact reserves the right to consider only such applications which are completely suitable for the requirements for the position. Your application will be considered with confidentiality in respect of law “For Personal Data Protection”.