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
(m/f/x, 40 hrs./week, based in Berlin, starting in March 2026, for 1 year, with the option of permanent contract afterwards)

to help bring high-impact AI learning programs to life and support executives in turning artificial intelligence into real organizational value. 

As an AI Program Director, you will: 

• Develop compelling proposals for customized AI-focused executive education programs in close collaboration with faculty, senior program directors, and clients. 
• Manage and deliver both customized and open-enrolment AI programs end to end, from design refinement and faculty coordination to delivery, evaluation, and follow-up. 
• Facilitate the learning journey by orchestrating contributions from faculty, practitioners, and external experts; you may also teach sessions or lead workshops in your areas of expertise. 
• Ensure operational excellence across timelines, budgets, and stakeholder coordination. 
• Manage client relationships with professional communication, responsiveness, and a strong service mindset. 
• Collaborate closely with internal teams across ESMT and external partners to ensure high-quality, consistent program delivery. 
• Contribute to continuous improvement of AI programs by capturing client feedback, refining formats, and supporting innovation in learning design. 

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 in program design.

You bring a rare combination of AI domain expertise and leadership / organizational development experience, paired with a strong delivery and client mindset. 

• 3–5+ years of relevant experience in AI-related consulting, executive education, leadership development, or organizational transformation. 
• Deep understanding of AI and its business implications, with the ability to translate complex topics into impactful, executive-level learning experiences. 
• Proven experience in leadership development, executive education, or senior-level learning and transformation initiatives. 
• Strong proposal writing, program directorship, and stakeholder coordination skills. 
• Confident and credible communicator with senior executives; professional, service-oriented, and reliable. 
• Hands-on, structured, and collaborative, with high quality standards and attention to detail. 
• Fluent in both German and English is required. 
• Based in Berlin or willing to relocate; openness to occasional 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, and a 1-minute self-introduction video is highly preferred
• CV with relevant certificates and references
• Salary expectations and possible start date.