At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects that drive customer success and align with strategic goals.
- Company: Join Hitachi Rail, a leader in innovation with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work arrangements, market-leading training, and mentoring from industry experts.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and collaboration across global teams.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the rail industry while developing your skills and career.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Science, or Innovation Management required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Reporting to the Technical and Assurance Director, the Innovation Manager will lead the development of innovative solutions that support customer success and align with Hitachi Rail’s strategic goals.
Location: London, Greater London, United Kingdom (On‑Site with hybrid work model requiring regular travel)
Key Responsibilities
- Identify and deliver targeted innovation activities aligned with business goals and objectives.
- Prioritise innovation opportunities based on forecast returns.
- Secure funding for innovation activities from external and internal sources.
- Deliver the targeted outcomes (technical, exploitation, commercial, financial).
- Identify and engage SMEs as appropriate.
- Establish links and relationships with key customers and the UK Rail professional innovation network.
- Establish links and relationships with SMEs and academia regarding complementary technologies and capabilities.
- Close collaboration with Product Line Managers, Product Line Architects, Product Owners, Culture Captains/Coaches.
- Close collaboration with business units worldwide.
- Close collaboration with bid and project solution engineering managers and project design authorities where applicable.
- Active contributor to the whole Engineering and Technical team.
- Implementation of Project, Product, and Innovation Management practices.
- Contract Management.
- Prototyping and Experimentation – capable of developing proof‑of‑concepts and minimum viable products.
- Bid and Financial Management, including necessary financial acumen to develop work cost estimates and navigate complex funder requirements.
- Intellectual Property Management.
- Critical Thinking – demonstrate Creative Problem Solving techniques and understanding of Design Thinking principles.
- Strong stakeholder management, leadership and communication skills; build relationships at all levels and influence decision makers.
- Build beneficial and collaborative relationships with external organisations, customer bodies, and funders.
- Lead, manage, mentor and coach a diverse matrix‑managed team.
- Resilience, flexibility, and ability to work with uncertainty.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Science, Innovation Management or related topic area.
We Offer
We provide an environment to grow to your full potential through market‑leading training, development and experiences, along with mentoring and coaching by industry leaders.
Flexibility
Flexible work arrangements: part‑time, job sharing, home working, flex start and finish times. Work pattern that suits your lifestyle to help you reach ambitions.
Some vacancies may require full Security Clearance, which might involve further evidence to be provided. Refer to the UK Government website for details.
We welcome and value differences in background, age, gender, sexuality, family status, disability, race, nationality, ethnicity, religion, and worldview and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
Innovation Manager employer: Hitachi Rail GTS UK Limited
Hitachi Rail is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, providing employees with the opportunity to lead transformative projects in the heart of London. With a strong commitment to professional development through market-leading training and mentoring from industry leaders, employees can thrive in a flexible work environment that values diversity and inclusivity. The role of Innovation Manager not only offers the chance to drive impactful solutions but also to engage with key stakeholders and contribute to the future of rail technology.
Contact Details:
Hitachi Rail GTS UK Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Innovation Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the rail industry, especially those involved in innovation. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential mentors or collaborators.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your creativity! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers, share your innovative ideas and past projects. Bring along examples of your work, like prototypes or case studies, to demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a job that fits, apply through our website. Don’t wait for the perfect moment; show us your enthusiasm and readiness to contribute to our goals right away!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your stakeholder management skills. Think of examples where you've successfully influenced decision-makers or built strong relationships. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can lead and collaborate effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Innovation Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Innovation Manager role. We want to see how you can contribute to our goals at Hitachi Rail!
Showcase Your Innovation Skills:Don’t forget to include examples of your past innovative projects or solutions. We love seeing creative problem-solving in action, so share those success stories that demonstrate your ability to think outside the box.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and qualifications stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hitachi Rail GTS UK Limited
✨Know Your Innovation Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in innovation management, especially in the rail industry. Be ready to discuss how your ideas can align with Hitachi Rail’s strategic goals and demonstrate your understanding of customer success.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working closely with various teams and stakeholders, prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight your ability to build relationships and influence decision-makers at all levels.
✨Be Financially Savvy
Understand the financial aspects of innovation management. Be prepared to discuss how you would secure funding for projects and manage budgets effectively. This will show that you have the necessary acumen to navigate complex funding requirements.
✨Demonstrate Critical Thinking
Prepare to showcase your problem-solving skills and familiarity with design thinking principles. Think of specific examples where you've used creative problem-solving techniques to overcome challenges in previous roles.
