Since 2010, TEDxZurich has been a platform for spreading ideas that matter, locally and globally. For the past 15 years, we’ve brought people together to celebrate curiosity, spark conversations, and inspire action through independently organized TEDx events. Guided by the core values of TED: open-mindedness, inclusion, truth, generosity, and a deep belief in the power of ideas, we’ve built a community of changemakers, thinkers, doers, and dreamers. Today, TEDxZurich is entering an exciting phase of renewal. We’re redefining our activities, reshaping our strategy, and rebuilding the organization for its next chapter. This is your opportunity to be part of that transformation, and help lead it.
As Partnerships Manager you will drive TEDxZurich’s growth and sustainability by securing corporate sponsorships, managing key partner relationships, and unlocking new funding streams. Working closely with the Head of Partnerships, you will take ownership of specific segments of our pipeline, turning leads into meaningful, long-term collaborations.
This role is designed for a proactive, relationship-driven professional who is passionate about connecting Switzerland’s business, marketing, and foundation communities with powerful ideas. If you are a persistent closer who thrives on autonomy and follows through to completion, this role is for you.
Your responsibilities
* Corporate business development: Identify, pitch, and secure new corporate sponsors. Tailor sponsorship packages to match partner marketing objectives with the TEDx ethos.
* Foundation Grant Management: Lead the research and application process for relevant foundations and public grants, crafting compelling, impact-driven funding proposals.
* Account & relationship management: Serve as the primary point of contact for partners, ensuring all contractual deliverables (branding, ticketing, engagements) are executed flawlessly.
* On-site activation: Oversee partner presence and hosting on the day of the main event (or other smaller events when partners are present), ensuring a premium experience for our supporters.
* Cross-functional alignment: Collaborate with the Marketing, Operations, and Speaker teams to seamlessly integrate partner initiatives into the broader event ecosystem.
Qualifications
* German native speaker with business-fluent English (Swiss-German comprehension is highly valued).
* Proven experience in sales, corporate sponsorship, business development, or fundraising—preferably within the Swiss market.
* An established local network across Switzerland’s corporate landscape, marketing agencies, or philanthropic sectors.
* A persuasive communicator capable of pitching to C-level executives and foundation boards.
* Self-starting and execution-driven, with the organizational skills to manage a pipeline independently.
Commitment
This is a volunteer position requiring approximately 8 hours per week (20%). While weekly hours are flexible, the role requires consistency throughout the season, with peak intensity occurring during the partner onboarding phase and in the immediate lead-up to the main event.
What We Offer
* Unmatched networking opportunities with top-tier executives, innovators, and thought leaders in Zurich.
* A high-impact leadership portfolio piece showcasing your ability to drive revenue and manage enterprise partnerships.
* A collaborative, passionate, and fun team environment dedicated to ideas worth spreading.
This role is available immediately.
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