Job Description
Join Nexus Future Labs at the forefront of tomorrow's innovation landscape. We're seeking a visionary 2026 Strategic Innovation Lead to architect our next-generation technology roadmap and drive transformative initiatives that will redefine industries by 2026. This role demands a blend of strategic foresight, technical acumen, and cross-functional leadership to navigate emerging trends like quantum computing, AI ethics, and sustainable tech ecosystems. You'll collaborate with C-suite executives to build a 5-year innovation framework while managing a $20M R&D portfolio.
Our Austin headquarters offers an immersive environment where cutting-edge research meets agile execution. We provide comprehensive benefits including equity participation, wellness stipends, and dedicated innovation time to fuel breakthrough thinking.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the 2026 strategic innovation roadmap aligned with market evolution and regulatory shifts
- Lead cross-functional teams in prototyping and scaling next-gen technologies (quantum, AI, bio-convergence)
- Identify and evaluate emerging tech partnerships and M&A opportunities for 2026 market positioning
- Present innovation strategies to executive leadership and investor stakeholders
- Establish KPIs for innovation maturity and track progress against 2026 milestones
- Drive cultural transformation to embed future-ready thinking across 500+ global teams
Qualifications
- 15+ years in strategic innovation or R&D leadership within tech/consulting/industry
- Proven track record of launching technologies with 5+ year market impact
- Expertise in emerging tech trends (quantum computing, AGI, climate tech)
- Certification in futures thinking (e.g., CFP, WFS) or strategic foresight methodology
- Experience managing $10M+ innovation budgets and cross-continental teams
- Published thought leadership in innovation strategy or future studies
- Advanced degree in relevant field (MBA, MS Engineering, PhD preferred)