Our client is a globally active, founder-led organization operating at the intersection of culture and creativity, shaped by entrepreneurial vision. You will work at the heart of one of the most influential and recognized players in their field, supporting the CEO in creating a seamless operational environment, while engaging with the Chairman’s Office and leadership team.

Our ideal candidate knows their strengths, stays grounded, and takes pride in their work; someone who brings more than just a strong CV: spark, curiosity, and the confidence to take ownership. This isn’t a role for those chasing the best package (though it is competitive); it’s for someone who cares deeply about the work itself. The kind of person who follows through without needing reminders and stays focused when the pressure is on. In short: a steady, trusted partner to the CEO. The role is based in Zurich and requires the flexibility to travel internationally - on short notice - when needed.

What you will be doing
Strategic and Operational Support

• Act as a sparring partner to the CEO, helping prioritize strategic initiatives and manage decision-making processes.
• Coordinate and monitor execution of key projects, ensuring alignment with board-level goals.
• Conduct research, prepare briefing materials, and draft executive summaries to support the CEO.
• Identify inefficiencies and propose solutions, and then take the lead in implementing them.

Executive Support

• General administrative tasks, e.g., prepare, organize, and facilitate board, leadership, and other meetings, from agenda setting to coordination and follow-up on action items.
• Handle internal and external communications on behalf of the CEO.
• Draft agendas, briefings, presentation materials, and reports.
• Support the CEO through time management with structure, attention to detail, and a sense for shifting priorities.
• Serve as a liaison for stakeholders who require the CEO’s input or representation.
• Compile pre-reads and ensure clear and effective communication around key topics.
• Translate the CEO’s ideas into actionable plans, address pain points, and drive initiatives forward.
• Tackle new challenges as they arise.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Maintain cross-departmental visibility (Finance, Marketing, Communications, HR) to ensure information flow.
• Translate the CEO’s strategic direction into tangible action plans for the leadership team and monitor progress.
• Support the development and implementation of operational processes that foster growth and collaboration.

Advocate for Culture

• Uphold the organization’s core values: trust, discretion, professionalism, and long-term partnerships.
• Foster a culture of open communication and high performance while keeping a sense of humor and humanity across all global teams.

Who You Are

• You’re discreet, emotionally intelligent, and bring a diplomatic mindset to every interaction.
• You’re someone who figures things out with a strong bias for action: things get done when you’re around.
• You’re structured and precise, but flexible enough to juggle ever-changing projects.
• You’re a clear, engaging communicator who connects easily with others.
• You love optimizing, improving, and stretching beyond your comfort zone.

What You Will Bring to the Table

• B.A. in Business Administration; an MBA is considered a plus.
• Minimum 5 years of (strategic) project management, working closely with senior executives in fast-paced, international, and entrepreneurial settings.
• Ideal background: cultural institutions, luxury retail, private family offices, design/architecture or creative agencies, high-end hospitality; particularly those that are family-owned or privately held.
• Experience working with senior executives and/or entrepreneurs.
• Track record of managing strategic, multi-stakeholder projects and global initiatives across workstreams.
• The confidence to make independent decisions that improve operational efficiency.
• A hands-on, detail-oriented mindset, with the ability to manage and navigate complex topics.
• A structured and analytical approach, balanced with sound judgment and business intuition.
• Proactive attitude with situational awareness and a sense of timing.
• Curiosity, adaptability, and creative thinking, combined with solid business acumen.
• Operational excellence is second nature: you’re a doer and natural problem-solver.
• Strong copywriting skills and a creative flair.
• Business fluency in both German and English; additional European languages are a clear advantage given the organization’s international footprint.
• High integrity and utmost discretion.

What's On Offer
Our client offers a dynamic workplace where learning and meaningful contribution are more than just words. You work alongside a passionate CEO who is committed to building a strong partnership with you. The culture is collaborative, multicultural, and firmly anchored in the founder’s vision. You become part of a team that’s passionate about what they do. The business activities are anything but ordinary, and along the way, you’ll cross paths with fascinating personalities.

How to Apply
We’d love to hear what excites you about this role in whatever format suits you best. Whether it’s an email or a short video (on Vimeo or YouTube), we’re not looking for a traditional cover letter. Instead, show us who you are and what drives you. Share what you have accomplished and what you are proud of. Feel free to include links to your social profiles (LinkedIn, X, Instagram) and reach out to us at apply@barnickelfellows.ch referencing «Chief of Staff».Please include your reference letters and educational certificates in chronological order, merged into a single PDF. ​

​Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete a case study and an online assessment as part of the process.
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Barnickel & Fellows | Talstrasse 58 | 8001 Zurich | +41 44 243 86 68