Innovation Manager - AI & Web3

Emirates; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 80,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as an Innovation Manager in vibrant Dubai. This role is pivotal in shaping the future of aviation through cutting-edge technologies like AI and blockchain. You'll lead innovation projects, manage R&D activities, and collaborate with diverse teams to drive impactful solutions. If you're passionate about technology and eager to make a difference, this is your chance to thrive in a dynamic environment that values creativity and innovation. Experience a tax-free salary and exceptional travel benefits while contributing to a global leader in the aviation industry.

Benefits

Tax-free salary

Discounted flights

Hotel stays worldwide

Excellent leave

Healthcare benefits

Transport benefits

Life insurance

Qualifications

• 8+ years of IT experience with a focus on innovation.
• Strong knowledge of next-generation technologies and their applications.

Responsibilities

• Drive innovation through R&D and manage proof-of-concepts.
• Lead innovation projects using agile principles and ensure timely delivery.

Skills

Innovation practices

Lean start-up methodologies

Design thinking

AI

Blockchain

AR/VR

Edge computing

Quantum computing

Agile delivery management

Business process improvement

Education

Degree or Honours (12+3 or equivalent)

Job description

Job Purpose

At Emirates, we believe in connecting the world through our global hub in Dubai and constantly innovating to ensure our customers Fly Better. Join us in Cosmopolitan Dubai as an Innovation Manager and make your mark on the aviation industry by elevating our products and services.

Be part of our Technology Futures & Innovation team, where innovation drives our success. We focus on cutting-edge solutions in robotics, spatial computing, generative AI, and corporate ventures. If you are passionate about technological advancements and impactful work, apply to help shape the future of Emirates Group.

This role reports to the AI & Web3 innovation technology pillar, focusing on transforming AI solutions and Web3 initiatives into measurable business value. You will design and execute innovation programs, run proof-of-concepts, and collaborate with government and large organizations to define and implement the group's AI & Web3 strategies. Proven ability to deliver, simplify, and maintain momentum, along with project management skills and clear communication, are essential. Airline experience is a plus, but a strong track record of deploying advanced technology into production is most important.

In This Role, You Will

1. Drive innovation through R&D activities leveraging emerging technologies, manage proof-of-concepts, and develop new business models in collaboration with various teams and partners. Lead innovation prototypes and foster a culture of innovation across the organization.
2. Manage innovation projects using agile principles, ensuring timely delivery within scope and budget. Define and oversee annual innovation programs and budgets, providing innovative solutions to accelerate business speed and agility.
3. Research emerging technologies and platforms, explore new business models, maintain the Innovation Technology Radar, and document relevant industry innovations and whitepapers.
4. Create an innovation-at-scale model by consolidating initiatives, spreading efforts across business units, and managing the innovation lifecycle from ideation to production. Develop and maintain the Emirates Group Innovation operating model and framework.
5. Define problem statements and ideation sessions using design thinking to generate practical and innovative solutions. Collaborate with business sponsors for streamlined idea-to-production processes.
6. Establish KPIs to measure and drive departmental performance aligned with organizational goals.
7. Organize hackathons and innovation events to solve niche problems, showcase prototypes, and generate new ideas by engaging with strategic partners and internal teams.
8. Engage with stakeholders to promote innovation, manage virtual communities, and collaborate with startups, universities, and incubators for sourcing new ideas and technologies. Work with the partnership team on go-to-market strategies for innovation partners.
9. Collaborate with IT functions to adopt and spread knowledge of next-generation technologies, ensuring Emirates remains at the forefront of innovation.

Leadership Role: Yes

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree or Honours (12+3 or equivalent)
• 8+ years of Information Technology experience

Knowledge/Skills

• Extensive knowledge of innovation practices, lean start-up, and design thinking methodologies
• Understanding of next-generation technologies (AI, Blockchain, AR/VR, Edge computing, Quantum) and their business applications
• Relationship management and presentation skills
• Software development methodologies and design
• Agile delivery management
• Business process improvement
• Ability to assess and communicate the potential and risks of new technologies
• Creative and innovative thinking, problem-solving skills
• Research skills on key technology and industry trends

Salary & Benefits

Join us in a managerial role with an attractive tax-free salary. Enjoy our travel benefits, including discounted flights and hotel stays worldwide, along with excellent leave, healthcare, transport benefits, and life insurance. Experience life in our vibrant, cosmopolitan home city, Dubai. For more details, visit www.emirates.com/careers.