Head of Governance, Risk

The Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) is a world-leading institute in global health with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries. Associated with the University of Basel, Swiss TPH combines research, education and services at local, national and international levels. 1'000 people from 96 nations work at Swiss TPH focusing on infectious and non-communicable diseases, environment, society and health as well as health systems and interventions.

We are seeking an experienced leader to join Swiss TPH in the newly created role of Head of Governance, Risk & Compliance (80–100%).

The Head of Governance, Risk & Compliance is responsible for designing, implementing, and continuously enhancing a comprehensive governance, risk, and compliance framework. This role ensures the institute operates in full legal and regulatory compliance, proactively identifies and mitigates risks, and fosters a culture of integrity, transparency, and accountability. In your role, you also set up a new unit and form a new team.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive GRC strategy, aligned with the institute's overall strategy and identity, including risk identification, assessment, and management
• Establish and continuously enhance the internal control system (ICS) and risk management frameworks
• Oversee and strengthen the institute's Data Protection and Compliance programs as integral parts of the GRC framework, including the Code of Conduct and anti-corruption measures
• Regularly report to the Directorate, Executive Team and relevant authorities; Prepare and document Board meetings, including agendas and minutes
• Form, lead and further develop a multidisciplinary team of governance, security, safety, legal and quality professionals who cover the wide range of activities and regulations of the institute
• Act as an "ambassador" for compliance matters at the institute and conduct training and awareness programs across the entire institute

• Completed degree in Law, Business Administration, Audit, Risk Management or a comparable qualification
• Extensive experience in a leadership role within GRC, Risk Management, or Compliance
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and frameworks. Experience in research and human research ethics is an asset
• Proven experience in designing, implementing, and optimizing GRC systems and processes; experience in diverse cultural / national settings would be an asset
• Extensive experience in stakeholder- and relationship management, proven ability to find pragmatic approaches and solutions in complex, often sensitive or contradictory situations
• Specialization in Data Protection, with proven experience in implementing and monitoring data protection and privacy programs would be an asset
• Demonstrated analytical, conceptual, and strategic competence, with excellent and inclusive communication and presentation skills in German and English; knowledge of French is an asset

• Purpose-driven mission of an internationally renowned global health institute
• Responsible position in a supportive, collegial, and multicultural work environment
• State-of-the-art workplace in our headquarters in Allschwil near Basel, located at the heart of a leading life sciences and biotech cluster
• Opportunities for collaboration with people across disciplines and all career levels
• Attractive employment conditions, including flexible working hours to balance work and private life, remote work options depending on the role, as well as diverse training opportunities and mentoring

Job conditions:

• Start Date: Upon earliest availability
• Duration: Unlimited contract
• Percentage: 80-100%
• Location: Allschwil near Basel, Switzerland
• Travel required: Very limited
• Internal job title: Head of Unit

Application / Contact

How to apply:

Please submit your application online via with:

• CV
• Motivational letter including names and contact information (email or phone) of 1 – 2 references
• Reference letters and diploma

Swiss TPH is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace that values and respects differences across gender, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and socio-economic background. We believe that diversity strengthens our work, and we are dedicated to providing equal opportunities for all. In line with this commitment, we aim to increase the proportion of female leaders and therefore warmly encourage women to apply, while welcoming applications from all qualified candidates for the position.

Please note that we can only accept applications via our online recruiting tool. As long as the position is online on our company website, we are open to new applications. Applications via e-mail or external recruiter/agency will not be considered.

Join us in improving people's health and well-being worldwide – we look forward to receiving your application.

Contact:

Christina Bucher, Senior Recruiting Partner,

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