The HSC gGmbH is seeking an experienced and dynamic Co-Managing Director to lead the strategic program planning, development, and execution of the program for our main annual conference. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in multilateral politics and private sector engagement for sustainable development, brings a broad international network and hands-on experience in program development for high-level events, political sensitivity and experience with multi-stakeholder management in public-private partnership initiatives. This role requires strong leadership skills, exceptional readiness and resilience, as well as organizational, and communication skills to ensure the successful delivery of high-quality processes and results for our world-class conference. As a young and growing organization, we seek a personality with an entrepreneurial mindset and exceptional motivation. The position starts latest on January 1, 2027. The work location is our office in Berlin or Hamburg.
Please submit your application by August 10, 2026. Thank you for your interest in this position.
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Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for the program process and long-term development of the Hamburg Sustainability Conference as a world-class conference to ensure impactful outcomes and alliances for sustainable development and international cooperation taking into account HSC Council decisions and guidance
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Plan, coordinate, and execute the program process hands-on for a large-scale annual conference together with strong stakeholders from politics, business, academia, and civil society, aligning all stakeholders under the organization's mission
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Coordinate a multistakeholder co-creation process that connects our partners across sectors to work on breakthroughs in sustainable development
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Develop pathways for the strategic and long-term involvement of the private sector in the HSC
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Coordinate fundraising activities
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Lead a team of (to date) nine project- and event managers and the program directors, providing professional guidance and leadership on effective processes
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Collaborate with key stakeholders, including the HSC initiators, sponsors, partners, speakers, and the event team to ensure the success of each event
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Conduct post-event evaluations to assess success and areas for improvement and implement necessary changes for future events
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Work closely with the Co-Managing Director Finance & Event Operations to lead the team, organize the company and its business development in a collaborative joint leadership approach
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Minimum Master’s degree in International Relations, Political Science, Economics, Law, Sustainability Management or a related field
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Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in multilateral politics, international policy context, corporate sustainability management, program management, strategic communications, or a related field
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Expertise in the field of the 2030 Agenda and the Beyond 2030 Framework, including on relevant current debates among stakeholders from politics, business, civil society and academia
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Strong global networks in international sustainable development as well as with the politics and political stakeholders in Germany and beyond on leadership or C-level
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International work experience and professional relations to organizations in developing countries, emerging economies and Europe
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Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience and strong management skills
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Proven track record of successfully managing international high-level events and multi-stakeholder programs
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Proven experience in facilitating processes that have led to effective results and new alliances involving stakeholders from politics, the private sector, or academia and civil society both from the Global South and Global North
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Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, outstanding communication, project management and interpersonal skills
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Excellent English and fluent German language skills. An additional UN-language is an asset
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Proficiency in working with digital project management tools
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Ability and flexibility to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
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Passion for sustainability and commitment to HSC’s mission
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Important Mission: Be part of an international initiative that makes a difference in building partnerships for advancing the Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). You have the chance to make a significant impact on global sustainability initiatives.
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Exciting Network: We offer a collaborative work environment within high-level networks across politics, business, science, civil society and philanthropy.
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Exclusive Events: Shape the annual international high-level conference and the exciting formats of the Hamburg Sustainability Week and promote dialogue for a sustainable future.
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Great Location in the heart of the city. You have the option to choose between our centrally located Berlin office and our Hamburg office.
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Vacation: Enjoy 28 vacation days per year (with a 5-day work week), plus December 24th and 31st as additional days off.
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Team Culture: Work in a dedicated and diverse team of about 30 people, all passionate about sustainability, international cooperation and creating outstanding events.
Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and experience via our application portal. First interviews are planned for the first two weeks of September with representatives of our initiators followed by the second interview at the end of September.
If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact:
Jenny Pusch
HR Generalist & Organizational Development
[email protected]
HSC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Join us at the Hamburg Sustainability Conference and be a part of shaping a sustainable future!
The Hamburg Sustainability Conference (HSC) is an initiative of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the Michael Otto Foundation and the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg. HSC is dedicated to advancing global cooperation and empowering alliances that drive progress toward a shared future. As a platform for visionary thinking and collaborative action, we bring together leaders, innovators, and change-makers to develop bold ideas and shape solutions for tomorrow. HSC fosters meaningful connections and collective momentum for a more resilient, inclusive, and future-oriented world.
