Job Description
Join NextGen Innovations as we redefine tomorrow's landscape. We seek a visionary 2026 Futurist Lead to architect our next-generation innovation roadmap and pioneer breakthrough solutions that will shape the decade ahead. This role demands strategic foresight, cross-industry expertise, and the ability to translate future trends into actionable business strategies.
As a cornerstone of our executive team, you'll collaborate with C-suite executives, research labs, and global partners to identify emerging opportunities across AI, biotechnology, sustainable tech, and quantum computing. You'll lead initiatives that position NextGen as the industry's thought leader while driving measurable impact through innovation incubation and future-proofing our enterprise ecosystem.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the 2026 innovation strategy roadmap, aligning with long-term corporate vision
- Conduct horizon scanning and trend analysis across 15+ emerging technology domains
- Lead cross-functional teams to prototype and validate future-facing solutions
- Establish strategic partnerships with research institutions and industry disruptors
- Present future scenarios to stakeholders and drive adoption of innovation frameworks
- Manage a $5M innovation portfolio with ROI-focused governance
- Mentor junior futurists and build an internal foresight capability
Qualifications
- 10+ years in strategic innovation, futurism, or R&D leadership
- Proven track record of launching future-oriented initiatives with measurable impact
- Advanced degree in Futures Studies, Systems Engineering, or related field
- Expertise in scenario planning, technology forecasting, and disruption analysis
- Strong network within Silicon Valley innovation ecosystems
- Certification in Futures Thinking (e.g., from WFS or APF)
- Experience scaling innovation programs in Fortune 500 environments
- Exceptional communication skills for translating complex concepts to diverse audiences