Innovation Manager

Role: Innovation Manager

Domain: Drones, sensors, robotics, IoT

Industry: Technology accelerator

Type: FTC (1 year)

Salary: £50-60k+ (+18% bonus, 23% pension, etc)

Location: London (hybrid – 2 days per week)

A boutique technology accelerator are offering an exciting opportunity for an Innovation Manager to join their fast-growing, mission-driven start-up team. This organisation partners with clients across safety-critical industries to accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge digital and technology solutions that address complex challenges around safety, risk and operational efficiency.

Their work spans an impressive range of emerging technologies – including drones, sensors, industrial IoT, wearables, and robotics – used to create real-world impact. Recent projects include piloting tech to reduce methane emissions from LNG-fueled vessels and deploying health and safety innovations such as AI-driven real-time incident prevention systems to enhance workplace safety. This is a unique chance to shape transformative solutions at the intersection of technology and societal impact.

Responsibilities of the Innovation Manager include:

• Lead Innovation Projects: Manage end-to-end delivery of accelerator and innovation programmes with cross-functional teams
• Engage Clients: Shape project direction and translate client needs into actionable plans
• Facilitate Collaboration: Design and run workshops, sprints, and stakeholder sessions
• Deliver Pilots: Lead or support tech trials, coordinate with clients and startups, and capture insights
• Create Content: Produce clear, impactful reports, presentations, and briefings
• Drive Team Delivery: Foster a positive team culture, manage timelines, budgets, and ensure quality output
• Manage Stakeholders: Liaise with clients, startups, and partners; support reviews and governance
• Capture Knowledge: Document and store insights to support future learning and delivery

Requirements of the Innovation Manager include:

• Minimum of 5-6 years in innovation, consultancy or programme delivery, ideally in tech-focused or startup environments
• Confident discussing technology, innovation, and digital trends, even without a technical background
• Skilled at managing multiple workstreams with focus and calm under pressure
• Able to convey complex ideas simply and engage diverse audiences
• Experienced in leading workshops, sprints, and collaborative sessions
• Comfortable in fast-paced, ambiguous settings with a self-starting approach
• Nice to have: Experience working in innovation programmes, accelerators, venture studios or directly with startups
• Nice to have: Knowledge of safety-critical sectors such as maritime, energy, transport or manufacturing (particularly in innovation or decarbonisation)
• Nice to have: Willingness to trave occasionally to attend event or meet with partners or stakeholders

If you have the necessary experience and would like to find out more, please apply for immediate consideration!