Roman Kern

Head Of Unit @ Swissnex | International Relations

Bern, Berne, Switzerland

About

• Technology and operations leader with a global outlook and a strong focus on innovation • Proven relationship builder in international environments with a track record of trust and impact • Strategic thinker who delivers practical, effective solutions I have a long-standing record of driving new initiatives, leading complex cross-functional projects, and guiding organizations through operational and technological improvements. My work requires senior-level presence, clear direction, and the ability to align diverse stakeholders around shared objectives. I am committed to building positive and productive relationships. Clear communication and a constructive mindset define my approach. I am particularly focused on strengthening processes, enabling organisational scale, and delivering sustained value to partners and stakeholders. My expertise includes complex data management as well as global systems and infrastructure projects across major technology platforms such as Apple, Google and Microsoft. I remain actively engaged in local and regional communities. During my years in Boston, I contributed to several groups working to improve the city’s civic landscape. Back in Switzerland, I continue to stay connected with and support US-American expat communities.

Experience

  • Head Of Unit at Swissnex
    May 2021 - Present · 5 yrs 3 mos

    As Head of the Swissnex Network Unit at the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI), I am responsible for the strategic direction, governance, and coordination of the six Swissnex main locations and the 20+ Science Offices and Science Counselors worldwide. Swissnex is the global network connecting Switzerland and the world in education, research, and innovation. Our mission is to support the outreach and active engagement of our partners in the international exchange of knowledge, ideas, and talent, thereby contributing to Switzerland’s profile as a world-leading innovation hotspot. In this role, I work closely with colleagues within SERI, with the Swissnex CEOs, with Science and Technology Counselors, and with key ERI stakeholders to ensure coherent strategies, sound governance, and effective operational frameworks across all locations. I support the development of impactful collaborations, strengthen network-wide alignment, and help ensure that Swissnex remains agile, entrepreneurial, and accountable in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

  • State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation SERI (Full-time · 7 yrs 5 mos)
    • Head of Unit @ Swissnex
      May 2021 - Present · 5 yrs 3 mos

    • Connections Explorer @ Swissnex
      Mar 2019 - Apr 2021 · 2 yrs 2 mos

  • Honorary Ambassador at Greater Zurich Area
    Oct 2018 - Present · 7 yrs 10 mos

    Greater Zurich Area, for the second time, appointed six U.S. executives, entrepreneurs and influencers as Honorary Ambassadors. The program recognizes each executive’s outstanding accomplishments between the United States and Switzerland

  • MassChallenge (5 yrs 11 mos)
    • Senior Director of Global Operations and Technology
      Jan 2017 - Feb 2019 · 2 yrs 2 mos

      I am a community builder and passionate about startups - as the Senior Director of Global Operations and Technology at MassChallenge I have the opportunity to pursue both. I am dedicated to fostering global entrepreneurship by supporting international knowledge exchange and engaging Boston-based international programs. As the heartbeat of the core information technology infrastructure for all MassChallenge programs worldwide, I am evaluating, designing, and implementing systems the organization uses to stay connected.

    • Senior Director of Programs and Operations
      Jan 2015 - Dec 2016 · 2 yrs

      In my role, I am responsible for overseeing major areas of the Boston Program, which include the curriculum, mentorship, judging, and all operational aspects of our offices.

    • Director of Systems and Operations
      Apr 2013 - Dec 2014 · 1 yr 9 mos

      Overall responsibilities include the core IT infrastructure, systems implementation and designs, internship recruitment, the accelerator’s hardware focus, management of the marketing website, some international outreach and playing with creative operational approaches to help the MassChallenge team succeed.

  • Organizing Fellow at Presidential Inaugural Committee
    2013 - Mar 2013 · 3 mos

    Helped organize a grassroots movement comprised of committed and passionate volunteers. Worked on a multi-platform online engagement campaign and tried to inspire and engage people.