The Corporate Innovation Director will report to the CEO & is responsible for developing, managing and executing all aspects of SVG Ventures Corporate Innovation Strategy.
The expectation for this role is that the individual filling it leverages a strong background working with corporates and large organizations on open innovation topics. This includes but is not limited to open innovation strategy development, disruption advisory and perspective development, partnership development across organizations large and small, startup scouting and evaluation, and new venture development. You are a strategic thinker, an experienced and efficient leader, have excellent people skills, business acumen and exemplary work ethics.
This is a unique opportunity to be a core member of an award-winning team and organization that is creating a lasting impact on agriculture, food production and the systems of our future.
RESPONSIBILITIES • Develop SVG Ventures/THRIVE Corporate Innovation Strategy • Work with corporate clients to explore their innovation needs & priorities • Manage & deliver custom innovation projects for corporate clients • Connect corporate clients with emerging technologies and startups that will have the most significant impact in their organizations • Support startups in SVG Ventures portfolio by leveraging opportunities to engage with corporate clients and partners • Complete market and technology trend analysis to understand key trends in agrifood tech • Expand existing corporate relationships by providing new offerings • Identify new business opportunities and new client acquisition • Set up and lead cross value chain workshops for corporate clients • Support/participate in the execution of THRIVE annual events • Complete annual reports for all corporate innovation clients
Liaise with THRIVE programs, marketing, fund, and management teams to deliver key initiatives like THRIVE Top50, Global Impact, and Venture Studio
Skills & Experience
Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Science, Technology, Agriculture or Business; (Master's Degree preferred)
5+ years of experience in any of the following:
Management, design, innovation advisory and engagement delivery
1-2 years of technical experience in agriculture, food, science or technology
Research & development in agrifood or adjacent tech space
Discovering, launching, and leading new ventures or business models
Innovation or Corp Dev function at agrifood corporate
Track record of involvement in driving significant partnerships and/or investments is major plus
Demonstrably deep connection and passion for food and/or agriculture is strongly preferred
Familiarity with the venture capital industry and experience working with or for startups
Excellent communication skills; written, verbal, and presentation
Self-starter with strong initiative and work ethic
Thrive in a fast paced, entrepreneurial environment