Corporate Innovation Manager

Manay CPA Accounting & Tax Services; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits package

Dynamic and growth-oriented work environment

Health insurance and performance-based bonus

Flexible Time Off

Lunch and transportation allowance

Job summary

A leading airline company seeks a Corporate Innovation Manager to drive innovation and strategic partnerships. The role involves overseeing technology scouting, integrating new solutions, and shaping strategic direction. The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in corporate innovation, a strong grasp of emerging technologies, and excellent communication skills, with a Bachelor's degree required and an MBA preferred.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in corporate innovation, ideally within aviation or related industries.
• Strong understanding of emerging technologies and their business applications.
• Experience in leading cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end innovation lifecycle, from technology scouting to full-scale adoption.
• Evaluate startups for potential investment or collaboration.
• Prepare reports on Innovation Lab activities and technology adoptions.

Skills

Corporate innovation experience

Technology leadership

Stakeholder management

Strategic thinking

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

MBA or advanced degree (preferred)

Job description

Company Overview

Founded as a leader in the airline industry, our client is a digitally advanced and profitable airline that consistently sets new standards through innovation and technology. With a guest‑centric approach and a focus on operational excellence, the company leverages advanced digital solutions to enhance the travel experience.

Its Silicon Valley Innovation Lab drives technological advancement and disruptive ideas, scouting and implementing cutting‑edge technologies to maintain a competitive edge in aviation.

Position Overview

As the Corporate Innovation Manager, you will lead initiatives to drive innovation, strategic partnerships, and business growth with an investment focus. Reporting to the Managing Director of the Innovation Lab, you will oversee technology scouting, investment opportunities, and integration of new solutions, playing a key role in shaping the company’s strategic direction and enhancing operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end‑to‑end innovation lifecycle—from technology scouting to proof of concept (PoC), pilot, and full‑scale adoption.
• Facilitate initial meetings with third parties and coordinate with internal business and technology stakeholders.
• Conduct business outcome and ROI analyses for potential technology solutions, assessing impact on KPIs, efficiency, and customer experience.
• Manage the business development process from NDA execution through partnership or investment agreement.
• Maintain comprehensive records of innovation initiatives and build a robust partner and startup ecosystem.
• Identify and prioritize emerging technologies and innovative business models relevant to aviation and adjacent industries.
• Source new products, platforms, and technologies through accelerators, venture hubs, and major tech vendors.
• Evaluate early‑stage startups for potential strategic investment or collaboration, including sweat equity arrangements.
• Lead Design Thinking workshops to explore customer‑centric innovation opportunities and technology needs.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally to assess technology integration feasibility and recommend optimal implementation paths.
• Track major technology trends—including AI, connectivity, robotics, and data platforms—to inform strategic decisions.
• Prepare and present regular reports on Innovation Lab activities, progress, partnerships, and technology adoptions to HQ leadership.
• Promote a culture of innovation across the organization, encouraging idea generation and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in corporate innovation, venture development, or technology leadership, ideally within aviation, mobility, or related industries.
• Strong understanding of emerging technologies (AI, big data, connectivity, digital platforms) and their business applications.
• Demonstrated success in building partnerships, assessing ROI, and driving digital transformation initiatives.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Tech‑savvy, strategic thinker with the ability to align innovation initiatives with corporate goals.
• Experience leading cross‑functional teams and delivering measurable business outcomes through innovative solutions.
• Familiarity with information security and technology compliance considerations in large‑scale organizations.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field required; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in business development, corporate innovation, venture capital, or technology integration.
• Proven track record in startup scouting, investment analysis, and strategic partnerships.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Dynamic, innovative, and growth‑oriented work environment.
• Lunch and transportation allowance.
• Health insurance and performance‑based bonus.
• Flexible Time Off and MyID travel benefits.
• Opportunity to lead transformative innovation in a globally recognized airline.

EEO Statement

Manay CPA and its affiliated clients provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.