Head of the International and National Affairs (INA) section

Neuchâtel, Switzerland (and home office) | 100-10%

What you can contribute

• Lead the International and National Affairs (INA) section in terms of personnel, technical, organizational, and financial aspects
• Strategically manage the national and international positioning of the BFS and Switzerland in the field of data and statistics
• Coordinate collaboration with federal services, cantons, international organizations, and other partner institutions
• Lead and support strategic files as well as negotiations at national and international levels
• Pursue the development of the areas: international affairs, international cooperation, national affairs, as well as event management and administrative service
• Advise the directorate of the office and that of the AK division on political, institutional, and strategic issues

What makes you unique

• University degree (master's or equivalent), preferably in political science, international relations, social sciences, economics, law, or a related field
• Several years of experience in leadership and management within a political, administrative, or international environment
• Proven experience in the strategic direction and development of complex organizational units and programs
• Strong skills in negotiation, communication, and advocacy at national and international levels
• Willing to undertake regular business travel in Switzerland and abroad
• Active knowledge of two official languages and very good knowledge of English

In a few words

What we offer

• Working for Switzerland We are committed to the success of the Swiss model and to the well-being of the population.
• Diversity in everyday life We ensure equal opportunities, which allows us to deploy our skills and express different points of view.
• Health at work We assist and advise our employees on all issues related to physical or mental health.

All benefits (https://www.stelle.admin.ch/stelle/fr/home/bundesverwaltung/ihre-vorteile-auf-einen-blick.html)

Statistics matter. For you too.

The Federal Statistical Office (BFS) is the competence center for public statistics and the main actor in the Swiss data ecosystem. It produces statistical information, works towards data harmonization through national data management, and develops processes derived from data science to evolve data interpretation. The BFS thus contributes to the formation of public opinion and makes an important contribution to modern democratic governance.

Additional information

The Federal Statistical Office actively participates in the development of national and international policy regarding data and statistics, and defends Switzerland's interests within key national and international bodies. As the head of the International and National Affairs section, you will lead an organizational unit with varied missions and, in collaboration with the management of the External Relations and Communication (AK) division, you will help define the positioning of the BFS towards authorities, international organizations, partner institutions, and other stakeholders. You will thus participate directly in the development of the public data and statistics system in Switzerland, in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as well as in the establishment of the new External Relations and Communication (AK) division, with an emphasis on national coordination and the networking of the BFS.

Application deadline: 11 October 2026

Questions about the position

Benjamin Rothen
Ambassador and Head of Section
+41 58 46 36482

Questions about the application

Melisa Gonzalez
Manager in the personnel service