Who we are:
Internationalism is at the core of our identity and the best representation of this is our workforce. With employees from over 66 countries and offices in nine locations, the BIS is a global organisation with a truly international workforce. By joining us, you will work in a unique, highly rewarding, and international work environment. We are committed to equal opportunities at the BIS and aim to build a workforce that reflects our global membership. We strive to attract the best talent and foster an inclusive environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, including those with a breadth of professional experience. You can discover more about our inclusive working environment here.
The Bank for International Settlements, BIS is hiring Head of Innovation Hub.
This role is based in Basel, however, thanks to our status as an international organization, we can hire globally and welcome applications from candidates of all nationalities and located anywhere in the world. Relocation support is available for the successful candidate and their dependent family members.
Purpose of the job:
Lead the BIS Innovation Hub, enabling it to achieve its mission to foster international collaboration on innovative financial technology within the central banking community, to improve the functioning and efficiency of the international financial system.
Develop and oversee the execution of projects involving innovative financial technology across multiple locations (Hub Centres) with the aim of increasing knowledge in areas of critical interest to central banks and with a view towards the production of global public goods.
Build a network of central bank experts on innovation and promote exchange of views and knowledge-sharing.
As a member of the Bank's Executive Committee (ExCo), contribute to the strategic planning and general management of the BIS.
Principal accountabilities:
Leading the Innovation Hub:
- Shape the strategic direction of the Hub and lead its effective implementation working closely with the General Manager, other members of BIS senior management, and the BIS governing bodies.
- Provide leadership and direction to the Hub's Management Team promoting functional excellence and continuous improvement. Ensure the effective operation and administration of the Hub's activities in Hub Centres around the world. Implement a rigorous performance-metrics management framework to evaluate progress against outcomes and facilitate strategic reprioritisation as necessary.
- Lead efforts to scout new technologies and identify potential projects that contribute to the mission of the Hub. Develop the work programme for the Innovation Hub, including its centres, under the guidance of Board-level committees and the General Manager.
- Collaborate closely with BIS central banks hosting Innovation Hub centres in order to manage effectively the Hub's operations. Foster synergies and collaboration between Hub Centres on projects and strategic initiatives. Establish the Hub as a focal point for collaboration and knowledge sharing among central bank experts on innovation, and foster a network of experts for this purpose.
Member of ExCo and other Bank-wide committees:
- As a member of ExCo, advise the General Manager on strategic decision-making, business planning and other key issues affecting the running of the Bank.
- Participate in other senior level Bank-wide committees as part of the general management of the BIS.
Relationships and representation:
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with counterparts in central banks/ international organisations, academia, and the private sector.
- Establish and develop effective working relations with the BIS committees, standard setting bodies, and international organisations.
- Represent the BIS, or ensure that it is adequately represented, at relevant Fintech events, and in engagements with the press.
Qualification:
- An excellent academic track record with a postgraduate degree (Master's degree or PhD) from a university of international standing.
Work experience:
- At least 10 years of experience in a visible, senior leadership position in the area of information technology, fintech, central banking, economic research and academia or the financial industry.
- A visionary leader with a track record of setting and implementing strategy.
- A track record of delivering excellence through others and leading diverse, high performing teams, preferably across multiple locations.
- In-depth knowledge of financial technologies with relevance for central banks, with an outstanding reputation and strong links to the fintech community.
Skills:
- Experienced and inspiring leader, with a public policy perspective, who is also known for undertaking, coordinating and guiding multidisciplinary research work.
- Ability to lead large scale programmes in complex environments across multiple locations.
- Extensive track record of interacting with senior leaders across a broad and diverse range of organisations. Previous experience interacting with central bank senior officials would be an advantage.
- Ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive forward innovative thinking.
- Results oriented with drive and determination to deliver.
- Ability to create a fast paced, dynamic work environment in which colleagues from diverse backgrounds work flexibly, effectively and constructively.
- Ability to present complex issues convincingly to a senior audience.
What the BIS offers:
We want your time at BIS to be a rewarding and career-enriching experience. We offer an agile and flexible working environment with hybrid working opportunities including home office and working from abroad days. To support our international applicants, we offer relocation support that extends to your dependent family members. In addition, we offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, including support for working families including childcare and education allowances (where applicable). Finally, we offer a genuinely unique international working environment, which will give you exposure to the global financial system and the opportunity to collaborate with passionate experts from all over the world.
To apply please upload your CV and cover letter, outlining your skills and experience that qualify you for this role.
Role closes on the 17th of August 2025.