Innovation Specialist - Startup Programs and Ventures

Job description / Role

At Emirates, we believe in connecting the world, to and through, our global hub in Dubai; and in constantly innovating to ensure our customers 'Fly Better'. Join us in cosmopolitan Dubai as an Innovation Specialist and make your mark on the aviation world by taking our products to the next level!

Oversee the development, management, and continual improvement of the innovation office. Work with internal IT teams, business stakeholders, and external partners to identify opportunities to address business IT innovation needs thereby improving throughput, idea conversion, and outcomes.

Job Outline:

- Collaborate with the team in overseeing all facets of incubator and accelerator programs.
- Think creatively to optimize the performance and growth of the startup portfolio in the programs.
- Apply creativity and exceptional presentation skills to develop engaging content for workshops and events, aiming to optimise startup portfolio performance and growth.
- Utilise expert-level proficiency in managing financial accounts and data with Excel, including the preparation and presentation of financial reports.
- Leverage experience in venture capital engagement and organizing successful startup events, underpinned by a strong network within the startup ecosystem, particularly in the UAE.
- Develop the innovation funnel in coordination with the innovation channel managers by working with IT colleagues and business partners across the IT portfolios. Organize design thinking sprints to identify problems and opportunities for innovation.
- Identify, develop, and utilize the necessary tools and reports (Metrics) to manage the innovation office and the innovation funnel.
- Conduct innovation workshops, training events, and presentations. Develop training and workshop materials for external and internal programs. Organise and coordinate internal IT and business forums for innovation.
- Develop the innovation brand with necessary metrics of evaluation, including the development of a group-wide innovation communication strategy, and the review and development or revamp of current communication channels.
- Drive a positive change in the innovation culture and identify opportunities to develop employee crowdsourcing of innovation ideas including the creation and maintenance of an employee portal/hackathon platform to promote employee engagement and a culture of innovation.

Requirements

Qualifications & Experience
Qualifications:

- Information Technology or Other: 5+ Years of experience along with Degree or Honours (12+3 or equivalent).
- Degree in Management, Technology, or Innovation. Experience in Information Technology, Technology Innovation, or other related fields.

Knowledge/Skills:

- Working within startup programs or venture capital, showcasing a proven track record in engaging startup ecosystems.
- Experience in hosting successful startup events, workshops, and training sessions.
- Demonstrate a deep understanding of emerging technologies relevant to startups, assessing their potential effectively.
- Demonstrated ability to prepare and present comprehensive financial reports and program updates to stakeholders.
- Proven track record of successful engagement with startup ecosystems, including incubator or accelerator programs.

About the Company

A fast-growing international airline with one of the youngest fleets in the sky and more than 400 awards for excellence worldwide.