Director of the Department of Design

Zürcher Hochschule für die Künste seeks a Director of the Department of Design in Zürich to lead strategic direction, quality assurance, and international representation for one of Switzerland’s top design institutions.

The Department of Design stands as a premier Swiss institution integrating teaching, research, and continuing education. This leadership position places the incumbent within the university’s executive team, tasked with guiding the department’s future trajectory and ensuring its academic excellence.

Responsibilities

• Define and steer the strategic vision, public standing, and quality standards of the department.
• Guarantee that the study program remains current, professionally relevant, and prepared for emerging challenges.
• Foster sustainable partnerships both inside and outside the university environment.
• Act as the primary representative for the department across internal university structures and global networks.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with influential figures in design, art, politics, society, and industry.
• Champion interdisciplinary approaches and drive innovation within the field.
• Participate actively in various internal and external committees.
• Support the conceptual and systemic growth of the department.

Requirements

• Educational background in design or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated history of managing complex, large-scale organizational units.
• University-level degree in a discipline aligned with the department’s focus.
• Fluent proficiency in German.
• Fluent proficiency in English.

Nice to have

• Prior experience leading units within higher education institutions.
• A doctoral degree (Ph.D.).

About the company

The Zürich University of the Arts (ZHdK) is one of Europe’s largest and most diverse art universities, hosting around 2,100 bachelor’s and master’s students. It serves as a vibrant hub where individuals from over 75 countries collaborate, study, teach, and conduct research. The institution features numerous exhibition and performance spaces that allow students to present their work to the public.

• A highly international community with staff and students from more than 75 countries.
• A dynamic environment supporting teaching, research, and continuing education.
• Extensive public-facing exhibition and performance venues for student projects.

How to apply

Documents to submit:

• Complete application materials