AI Program Director

ESMT Berlin is a leading global business school with its campus in the heart of Berlin. Founded by 25 global companies, ESMT offers master, MBA, and PhD programs, as well as executive education on its campus in Berlin, in locations around the world, online, and in online blended format. We strongly believe in cross-team collaboration to achieve our mission to develop entrepreneurial leaders who think globally and act responsibly.

ESMT Berlin is expanding its Executive Education portfolio and seeking an AI Program Director – an entrepreneurial professional with strategic vision and hands-on drive to build new AI programs, partnerships, and events, and to strengthen ESMT’s position as a thought leader in AI and leadership.

Join our Executive Programs team as a

AI Program Director
(m/f/x, full-time, 40 hrs./week, starting in January 2026)

and help shape the future by bringing your expertise and passion to ESMT.

As an AI Program Director, you will:

• Design and deliver AI-focused learning programs for executives – including customized corporate programs and open enrolment offerings.
• Facilitate the full learning journey, orchestrating contributions from faculty, practitioners, and external experts, with the option to teach or lead workshops in your areas of expertise.
• Build and expand ESMT’s AI portfolio – from new learning formats and partnerships to events and initiatives that connect business, academia, and the AI ecosystem.
• Represent ESMT externally, engaging in conferences, panels, and AI community activities to enhance visibility and thought leadership.
• Manage key client relationships, ensuring exceptional service and contributing to the growth of ESMT’s client base.
• Collaborate closely with program directors, faculty, and other internal and external stakeholders to advance ESMT’s impact in AI and leadership development.

What You Will Shape

This role offers genuine freedom to build something meaningful:

• A growing portfolio of AI programs for executives – some established, others awaiting your vision and leadership.
• New learning approaches and partnerships that connect ESMT with the European AI ecosystem.
• Thought leadership initiatives that position ESMT at the forefront of AI and leadership education.
• Collaborations across sectors, bridging academia, business, startups, and public institutions.

How Success Will Be Measured

• Growth and profitability of your program portfolio
• Program quality and measurable participant impact
• Client satisfaction and long-term relationships
• Innovation, thought leadership, and reputation building.

• Advising organizations on AI strategy, digital transformation, or leadership capability building.
• Working in a top-tier or boutique consulting firm focused on technology, innovation, or organizational development.
• Leading or supporting AI-related learning and upskilling initiatives within organizations, business schools, or corporate L&D functions.
• Designing and delivering leadership or transformation programs within an executive education or learning environment.

• Understand AI well enough to create impactful learning journeys for executives and help them create value with AI and adapt their leadership.
• Communicate with credibility and confidence at the senior executive level.
• Combine entrepreneurial drive with a hands-on mindset – building and scaling new programs, partnerships, and events that expand ESMT’s reach.
• Bring a relevant and active network in the AI and innovation community and enjoy engaging it to enrich programs and collaborations.
• Are curious, agile, and eager to experiment with new learning formats such as AI-enhanced learning, simulations, or blended delivery.
• Thrive in a collaborative, international environment that values initiative, humility, and care.
• Demonstrate a highly professional presence and excel at managing and growing client relationships.
• Are service-oriented, responsive, and seen as a trusted advisor by clients.
• Are fluent in English; German is a plus.
• Are open to travel.

ESMT Berlin is Germany’s leading business school and among the top institutions worldwide for executive education – ranked No. 1 in Germany and No. 4 globally for customized programs (Financial Times Executive Education Ranking 2025).

You will join a team recognized for its international diversity, deep expertise, and collaborative culture. People at ESMT take initiative, support one another, and enjoy the space to turn ideas into reality.

As AI becomes central to leadership and strategy, you will play a pivotal role in a fast-growing, high-impact area for ESMT – shaping how executives learn, lead, and create value in the age of artificial intelligence.

Discover the perks and culture that make our workplace special.

Health and Well-Being

• Flexible remote work, including up to 15 days abroad per year
• Ergonomic office equipment and access to university sports across Berlin
• Subsidized meals at the campus restaurant

Financial Benefits

• Subsidized public transportation ticket and leasing options of bicycles/e-bikes
• Company pension scheme with Allianz

Personal Development

• Access to LinkedIn Learning
• On-campus German and English courses in small groups
• Participation in ESMT’s Executive Education and degree programs

What makes this more than just a job

ESMT offers a collegial and international work environment, with employees representing more than 55 nationalities. We encourage a self-driven mind-set and contributions that create meaningful and lasting impact. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering a fair and inclusive workplace where individuals of all identities and backgrounds are welcomed and valued. Fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion enriches our employees, students, and broader community.

You will work on our campus in Berlin-Mitte. Get here by public transport or bike and enjoy your lunches in our private restaurant and café or next to the beautiful Spree. Make use of our big garden and enjoy coffee and tea on the house with your team. Our vibrant community comes together through activities and events like Lucky Lunch, Wednesday Cookies, Orientation Days for new employees, Summer Party and Year End Event, our talented ESMT choir, and much more.

Please submit your application via our online application form, including the following documents:

• Motivation letter
• CV with relevant certificates and references
• Salary expectations and possible start date.