Innovation Project Manager

卡慢; London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in defense and technology is seeking an Innovation Project Manager to oversee the lifecycle of innovative projects. This role involves collaboration with universities and industry partners, focusing on cutting-edge technologies like AI and autonomy. The successful candidate will manage project delivery, ensuring alignment with strategic goals while fostering partnerships. Ideal for those passionate about innovation and with a strong technical background.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of project management experience.
• Proven experience managing complex technical projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a portfolio of innovation projects.
• Develop and refine project proposals with clear objectives.
• Communicate project status effectively to stakeholders.

Skills

Creative problem-solving

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Master’s degree in a relevant STEM field

Job description

Introduction

Saab UK is part of Scandinavia’s largest defence company, bringing together the best of Swedish and British innovation. Saab offers world-leading solutions and services in defence, aviation, space, and civil security to keep people and society safe. Our UK presence has been growing at pace, offering a wide range of opportunities for personal fulfillment and career growth. We currently employ over 600 people across eight sites in the UK, with specializations including software engineering, underwater robotics, radars, AI, and armed forces training.

As part of the global Saab AB, Saab UK combines the innovative spirit of a start-up with the resources and expertise of a larger corporation. Globally, Saab employs over 24,000 people, operating on every continent. Our partnerships with UK customers and industry enable us to deliver innovative solutions to complex challenges, anticipating future threats. We invest 23% of our annual revenue into research and development, collaborating with industry and academia.

Saab offers our employees numerous opportunities for growth and advancement. We embrace diversity and are committed to providing a workplace where individuals can thrive professionally. We also recognize the importance of work-life balance for a fulfilling life beyond work.

The Role

Innovation is central to Saab UK. We are constantly seeking new ways to leverage cutting-edge technologies and develop solutions for tomorrow’s challenges.

As an Innovation Project Manager within the Innovation Programmes team, you will be at the forefront of this exciting journey. Reporting to and supporting the Head of Innovation and Technology Partnerships, you will manage the full lifecycle of innovation projects, from ideation to implementation, ensuring they deliver tangible value and align with Saab's strategic goals. Our collaboration projects involve universities, SMEs, and large industrial partners, focusing on technologies such as AI, autonomy, and underwater vehicles.

The role is based at our Innovation Hub in White City, London.

Key Responsibilities

1. Support the development and management of innovation and technology partnerships.
2. Lead and manage a portfolio of innovation projects, ensuring timely delivery, budget adherence, and quality standards.
3. Communicate project status effectively to stakeholders with regular updates and reports.
4. Identify relevant funding opportunities.
5. Develop and refine project proposals with clear objectives, deliverables, timelines, and resource needs.
6. Assess emerging technologies and trends for potential innovation and product development opportunities.
7. Collaborate with internal departments such as Engineering, Marketing & Sales.
8. Manage relationships with external partners, including universities, SMEs, and research institutions, to foster collaboration.

Essential Experience & Qualifications

• Ability to adapt to change, learn quickly, and embrace ambiguity.
• Creative problem-solving skills.
• Technical understanding of core technologies relevant to Saab’s business, with a STEM background—deep expertise not required.
• Passion for innovation and understanding of the innovation process.
• Experience managing complex technical projects from conception to completion.
• At least 2 years of project management experience, including planning, budgeting, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for building stakeholder relationships.

Desirable

• Masters (MSc/MEng/other) in a relevant STEM field.
• Experience in defence or security industries.
• Grant or bid writing experience.
• Business case development skills.
• Influencing and negotiation skills.

Join us and make a real difference in keeping People and Society Safe!

By applying to Saab UK, you consent to workforce screening activities, including security checks, reference verification, and working rights validation. Preferred candidates will undergo a security interview.