Job Description
Join InnovateNext Labs as a Futurist Strategist and lead the charge into tomorrow's technological landscape. We're seeking visionary thinkers to architect breakthrough strategies for 2026 and beyond. Shape how industries evolve through cutting-edge research, trend analysis, and innovation roadmapping. This role bridges technology, sociology, and business to prepare our organization for the next paradigm shift.
Why InnovateNext Labs? We're a forward-thinking incubator partnering with Fortune 500 companies to pioneer solutions for 2026 challenges. Our Austin hub features state-of-the-art labs, flexible work environments, and a culture that celebrates bold ideas.
Responsibilities
- Develop 5-year innovation roadmaps aligning with emerging tech trends (AI, quantum computing, biotech)
- Analyze global socio-technical shifts to identify disruptive opportunities and risks
- Lead cross-functional workshops to translate future insights into actionable strategies
- Produce high-impact reports on 2026 market landscapes and competitive positioning
- Collaborate with R&D teams to prototype next-gen solutions
- Advise executive leadership on future-proofing organizational capabilities
Qualifications
- 10+ years in strategic planning, innovation consulting, or futurist research
- Proven expertise in forecasting technological disruptions (AI, AR/VR, blockchain)
- Advanced degree in Futures Studies, Technology Management, or related field
- Published thought leadership on 2026+ trends (white papers, TED talks, etc.)
- Experience with scenario planning and horizon scanning methodologies
- Exceptional communication skills for translating complex concepts
- Portfolio demonstrating 3+ successful future-strategy implementations