Chief Innovation Officer (CInO)

Job Title: Chief Innovation Officer (CInO)Role SummaryThe Chief Innovation Officer is responsible for driving enterprise-wide innovation, identifying new growth opportunities, and fostering a culture of experimentation. This role leads the development of new products, services, business models, and partnerships to ensure long-term competitiveness and market differentiation.Key Responsibilities1. Innovation Strategy & VisionDefine and execute the organization's innovation strategy aligned with business goalsIdentify emerging trends, technologies, and market disruptionsAdvise executive leadership on future growth opportunities2. New Product & Business Model DevelopmentLead ideation, incubation, and scaling of new products, services, and venturesExplore new revenue streams, including digital and platform-based modelsDrive concept validation through pilots, MVPs, and rapid experimentation3. Innovation Programs & LabsEstablish and manage innovation labs, accelerators, and incubatorsImplement structured innovation frameworks (design thinking, lean startup)Run hackathons, innovation challenges, and internal idea programs4. Emerging Technology & PartnershipsEvaluate and adopt emerging technologies (AI, blockchain, IoT, etc.)Build partnerships with startups, universities, and technology providersLead corporate venture and open innovation initiatives5. Culture & Change ManagementFoster a culture of innovation, agility, and experimentationPromote cross-functional collaboration and idea sharingDrive organizational change toward a growth and innovation mindset6. Portfolio Management & GovernanceManage innovation portfolio, prioritization, and funding allocationTrack KPIs such as ROI, time-to-market, and innovation pipeline healthEnsure alignment with enterprise strategy and risk frameworks7. Commercialization & ScalingTransition successful pilots into scalable business solutionsWork with product, technology, and business teams to operationalize innovationsMeasure and communicate business impact of innovation initiativesQualifications & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Business, Technology, Engineering, or related field (MBA preferred)15–20+ years of experience in innovation, strategy, product, or technology leadershipProven track record of launching new products or business modelsExperience working with startups, ecosystems, or venture initiativesStrong understanding of digital technologies and market trendsKey CompetenciesStrategic and forward-thinking mindsetCreativity and problem-solving abilityStrong business and commercial acumenLeadership and influence across functionsAbility to drive change and cultural transformationTypical Reporting LineReports to: CEO / Chief Strategy OfficerDirect reports: Heads of Innovation Labs, Venture/Partnerships, New Product DevelopmentOriginally posted on Himalayas