Job Description
Join Nexus Horizons at the forefront of tomorrow's innovation as we seek a visionary 2026 Futures Research Lead to shape our long-term strategic roadmap. This pivotal role combines cutting-edge foresight methodologies with actionable business strategy to position our organization for the rapidly evolving technological landscape of the mid-2020s. You'll lead cross-functional teams in identifying emerging paradigms, developing scenario-based forecasts, and translating complex future trends into executable innovation initiatives. Our Austin-based headquarters offers a dynamic environment where your expertise will directly influence our next generation of products and market positioning.
As a key member of our Innovation Lab, you'll collaborate with C-suite executives, R&D teams, and external futurists to build proprietary foresight frameworks. The ideal candidate thrives at the intersection of technological possibility and human-centered design, with a proven ability to anticipate paradigm shifts before they enter mainstream discourse. This is your opportunity to architect the future of sustainable technology while driving measurable business impact.
Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain 2026 strategic foresight frameworks using horizon scanning, Delphi methods, and trend analysis
- Lead scenario planning workshops with executive stakeholders to map alternative futures
- Translate complex future trends into actionable innovation roadmaps for product development
- Establish quantitative forecasting models for emerging technology adoption curves
- Author quarterly futures intelligence reports for board-level decision-making
- Manage a global network of futurists and domain experts for trend validation
- Integrate ethical foresight principles into all strategic planning processes
Qualifications
- Advanced degree in Futures Studies, Systems Thinking, or related field (PhD preferred)
- 8+ years experience in strategic foresight, innovation consulting, or R&D leadership
- Proven expertise in scenario planning and horizon scanning methodologies
- Published thought leadership on emerging technologies (AI, quantum, biotech)
- Strong quantitative modeling skills with experience in trend forecasting
- Experience facilitating executive-level strategic planning sessions
- Certification in foresight methodologies (e.g., CFPC, CFP) preferred
- Portfolio demonstrating 3+ successful future-shaping initiatives