Global Chief Innovation Officer

About Integral Creative Solutions (ICS) and Opportunity

Integral Creative Solutions (ICS) is a retained executive search and staffing firm collaborating with fast-growing and enterprise companies to identify senior leaders essential for scaling. This role is for a confidential client seeking to expand its leadership team with a Global Chief Innovation Officer who will influence the company significantly from the outset.

Role Overview

The Global Chief Innovation Officer will direct the company’s innovation efforts globally—from scanning technological trends and conducting R&D, to incubating new products and managing their commercialization. This role commands responsibility for the enterprise-wide innovation portfolio and translating market and technology developments into new business growth.

Primary Responsibilities

• Design and own the global innovation strategy and manage the innovation portfolio enterprise-wide.
• Lead research and development initiatives, incubate new ventures, and foster new product development.
• Drive the commercialization of innovative products, services, and business models.
• Conduct horizon-scanning to monitor emerging technologies and market transformations and lead strategic responses.
• Develop and nurture the organizational culture, systems, and partnerships needed to sustain innovation at scale.
• Collaborate closely with the CEO and board of directors ensuring alignment on innovation priorities and expected returns.

Qualifications and Experience

• Extensive leadership experience totaling over 15 years in innovation, R&D, product management, or new venture development.
• Proven success converting innovation investments into profitable commercial growth.
• Strong technical expertise spanning research and development, emerging technologies, and productization processes.
• Demonstrable experience in building and leading innovation organizations at a global level.
• Strategic acumen to set innovation direction and effectively prioritize portfolio initiatives.
• Exceptional executive communication skills, capable of engaging boards and investors.
• Bachelor’s degree mandatory; an advanced degree or MBA strongly encouraged.

Preferred Experience

• Leadership in innovation across multiple international markets and regions.
• Involvement with corporate venturing, incubators, or accelerators.
• Experience in commercializing innovations in AI, digital technologies, or platforms.
• Track record of innovation leadership within the client’s specific industry.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive base salary ranging from $475,000 to $600,000, dependent on expertise and interview results.
• Equity or long-term incentives tailored to top-tier talent.
• Flexible working conditions, including options for home office support where applicable.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off policy plus company-recognized holidays.
• Annual budget dedicated to professional learning and development.
• Retirement savings plan with 401(k) matching benefits.