Director of Innovation

Job Description:

1. Strategic Innovation & Product Roadmap

• Futureproofing: Identify emerging market trends, disruptive technologies, and competitor shifts to steer the long-term innovation strategy.
• Portfolio Management: Oversee the lifecycle of new product development from ideation and proof-of-concept to commercial launch.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Work closely with R&D, Engineering, and Marketing to ensure technical feasibility meets market demand.

2. Business Development & Licensing

• In-Licensing: Identify and acquire external technologies, patents, or products that fill gaps in the current portfolio.
• Out-Licensing: Monetize internal IP by identifying external partners and negotiating lucrative licensing agreements.
• Strategic Alliances: Build and maintain a network of venture capital partners, universities, startups, and industry peers.

3. Commercial Strategy & Execution

• Market Analysis: Lead rigorous "build vs. buy vs. partner" analyses for all new opportunities.
• P&L Accountability: Manage the innovation budget and ensure that new ventures meet internal ROI and IRR benchmarks.
• Deal Negotiation: Act as the lead negotiator for complex term sheets, joint ventures, and M&A opportunities.

Requirements:

MBA or advanced technical degree (MS/PhD) preferred.

Extensive experience in innovation, corporate development, and/or strategic R&D.