Director of Learning & Innovation
Lausanne, CH
About IMD
Founded by business executives for business executives, the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) is an independent academic institute with campuses in Lausanne and Singapore as well as a Management Development Hub in Shenzhen.
We strive to be the trusted learning partner of choice for ambitious individuals and organizations worldwide. Our executive education and degree programs are consistently ranked among the world’s best by the Financial Times, Bloomberg, Forbes, and others.
Our leading position in the field is grounded in our unique approach to creating real learning, real impact. Through our research, programs, and advisory work we enable business leaders to find new and better solutions.
Our purpose is Challenging what is and inspiring what could be, we develop leaders and organizations that contribute to a more prosperous, sustainable and inclusive world.
To reinforce our team, we are looking for a
Director of Learning Innovation (100%)
The Job’s Mission
The Director of Learning Innovation will lead the transformation of learning across IMD’s degree and Executive Education programs, driving innovation in pedagogy, technology integration, and learning design to achieve our aspiration of becoming the world's most impactful business school. This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on execution to revolutionize how we deliver executive education and degree-level management programs across physical and digital domains.
Key Activities & Accountabilities
Strategic Leadership
• Develop and execute a comprehensive learning innovation strategy aligned with the school's global presence, particularly in Switzerland, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia
• Lead the design and implementation of cutting-edge learning experiences across campus, strategic learning hubs, client sites, and digital platforms
• Drive the integration of AI and emerging technologies to enable interactive, personalized learning at scale
• Establish frameworks for measuring and demonstrating tangible impact of learning innovations
• Foster strategic partnerships that align and amplify IMD’s vision and strategic goals
• Actively represent IMD in global conversations on education innovation by contributing to publications, delivering keynote presentations, and fostering collaborations with thought leaders and institutions.
Learning Experience Design & Innovation
• Spearhead the development of best-in-class learning journey design capabilities across all delivery modes, including in our clients’ learning ecosystems
• Create frameworks for customizing learning experiences to client needs while maintaining scalability
• Pioneer new, evidence-based approaches to learning design, pedagogy, and program delivery
• Oversee the development of outstanding physical and virtual learning environments
• Lead the integration of learning analytics and data-driven decision making across all touchpoints
• Champion the design and delivery of experiential learning opportunities that immerse participants in real-world challenges, promote critical thinking, and cultivate meaningful, lasting change
• Ensure all learning experiences are designed with a focus on the learner, prioritizing equity, diversity and inclusion.
Technology & Digital Transformation
• In partnership with the Director of Software Development and the Executive Director of Strategic Talent Solutions, enable the creation of highly personalized and interactive learning journeys that harness the power of AI and learning analytics
• Lead the creation of interactive and personalized learning experiences at scale
• Oversee the integration of learning technologies into client ecosystems
• Drive innovation in virtual and hybrid learning environments
• Champion ethical practices in the design and application of AI and data-driven tools, ensuring that innovations prioritize fairness, mitigate bias, and align with IMD’s commitment to responsible leadership.
Stakeholder Management & Collaboration
• Work closely with faculty to develop and implement innovative teaching methodologies, serving as a partner and source of expertise to support their professional development and enhance their teaching practices
• Collaborate with the degree program office to enhance program experiences
• Partner with IMD’s Chief People Officer and the HR team to support learning and development at IMD that is rooted in our learning innovation capabilities
• Partner with client engagement teams to understand and address market needs
• Foster partnerships with leading academic and non-academic institutions
• Engage with alumni communities to leverage insights and experiences.
Formula for success
Education
• Advanced degree in Learning Design, Educational Technology, Psychology, Business Administration, Philosophy or related field.
Experience
• 10+ years of experience in learning innovation leadership, preferably in business school education
• Proven track record of implementing successful learning innovation initiatives at scale
• Deep understanding of AI and emerging technologies in education
• Strong background in learning analytics and data-driven decision making
• Experience with both physical and digital learning environment design
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects
• International experience, particularly in European and Asian markets
• Proven experience in designing and delivering faculty development programs
• Demonstrated ability to influence the field of education through keynote speaking, thought leadership, and shaping global best practices in online and blended learning.
Competencies
• A proven track record of leading people and innovative initiatives that scale
• Entrepreneurial mindset with ability to drive quick decision-making
• Strong business acumen and understanding of executive education landscape
• Excellence in stakeholder management and communication
• Track record of measuring and demonstrating learning impact
• Experience with accreditation processes and quality standards
• Cultural sensitivity and global mindset
• Innovation-driven with a bias for action
• Ability to balance academic rigor with practical business relevance.
Impact Measures
Success in this role will be measured by:
• Implementation of innovative learning solutions that scale
• Improvement in learning outcomes and participant satisfaction
• Integration of AI and data analytics in learning experiences
• Development of new revenue streams through learning innovation
• Recognition as a thought leader in learning innovation
• Contribution to the school's global reputation and rankings
• Demonstrated impact on faculty and program effectiveness.
The Director of Learning Innovation will be a key member of IMD’s senior staff team, reporting directly to the Chief Innovation Officer, and will play a crucial role in achieving our aspiration to become the world's most impactful business school.
How to apply
If you have the above skills and would like to work in our stimulating environment, please send your complete application file (letter of motivation and resume in English, copies of your work certificates and diplomas).
If you’re a qualified candidate with a disability (such as dyslexia, sight and/or hearing disabilities, etc) and you need a reasonable accommodation in order to apply for this position, please specify it in your application.
A valid Swiss work permit or Swiss or EU-25EFTA citizenship is required for this position.