Head of Research
Permanent contract / Crans-Montana, Switzerland
Les Roches Global Hospitality Education, in the top 2 for Employer Reputation of Hospitality & Leisure Management graduates by the QS World University Ranking, is a brand of the Sommet Education Group. Founded in 1954, Les Roches is a private institution based on the Swiss model of experiential learning, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in the fields of hospitality, tourism and event management. Les Roches prepares entrepreneurial and innovative graduates across a global network of campuses in Crans-Montana (Switzerland), Marbella (Spain) and Abu Dhabi (UAE).
You share our values: Development, Distinctiveness, Joint commitment, Openness and Sense of service.
We are currently seeking a dynamic, visionary, and driven Head of Research to join our academic community.
As Head of Research, you will play a critical role in shaping and implementing the research strategy that aligns with our Institutional goals and global academic standards. This is a hands-on leadership role that combines strategy, mentorship, and active scholarship to drive innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence across disciplines.
Main requirements:
- PhD in a relevant discipline (Hospitality, Business, Management, Tourism, or related field).
- A robust publication track record in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals (Q1/Q2 Scopus-indexed).
- Minimum 6-8 years of academic research experience, including leadership roles.
- Demonstrated experience in supervising PhD/Master's theses and mentoring academic teams.
- Knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies and publication standards.
- Strong understanding of academic impact metrics, funding mechanisms, and grant applications.
- Experience in research-led teaching and curriculum development.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills with the ability to drive team collaboration.
- Fluency in English is required; additional languages are an asset.
Main responsibilities:
Design and execute a comprehensive research strategy aligned with the institution's vision, ensuring sustainable and impactful academic output.
Lead by example through active research and consistent publication in top-tier, peer-reviewed (Scopus-indexed) journals.
Guide, support, and inspire the Research Focus Team, fostering a high-performance culture and mentoring junior faculty and researchers.
Supervise and support postgraduate students and faculty in the development of research proposals, methodologies, and scholarly writing.
Proactively identify and secure research funding opportunities, and establish partnerships with academic, governmental, and industry stakeholders.
Ensure all research adheres to academic integrity, ethical standards, and internal quality frameworks.
Define and track clear research KPIs, including publication impact, citation metrics, grant success rates, and conference participation.
Represent the Institution at academic conferences, review panels, and scholarly forums to strengthen institutional reputation and influence.
Start Date: September 2025
If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for academic excellence and a proven research track record, we encourage you to apply and become part of our mission to inspire the next generation of global leaders.
