Job Description
Join NextGen Solutions as we pioneer the future landscape of 2026. We seek a visionary Futurist Innovation Lead to architect tomorrow's breakthrough technologies today. This role demands a strategic thinker who can anticipate market shifts and drive transformative initiatives across emerging domains. You'll collaborate with C-suite executives to develop forward-looking roadmaps while mentoring teams to embrace paradigm-shifting methodologies.
Our Austin headquarters fosters an environment where cutting-edge ideas flourish. We offer competitive equity packages, unlimited PTO, and dedicated innovation labs. If you're passionate about shaping the future and thrive at the intersection of technology and human potential, this is your calling.
Responsibilities
- Lead cross-functional teams in developing 2026 technology roadmaps for AI, quantum computing, and biotechnology convergence
- Analyze global megatrends to identify disruptive opportunities and competitive threats
- Design and implement horizon-scanning frameworks to forecast industry evolution
- Present strategic foresight insights to executive leadership and external stakeholders
- Champion innovation culture through workshops, hackathons, and thought leadership initiatives
- Manage innovation portfolio with focus on prototyping and rapid validation of future concepts
- Establish strategic partnerships with academic institutions and emerging tech startups
Qualifications
- Master's degree in Technology Management, Futures Studies, or related field (PhD preferred)
- 8+ years in innovation strategy, product development, or futurist consulting
- Proven track record of forecasting emerging technologies with 3+ case studies
- Expertise in scenario planning, systems thinking, and trend analysis methodologies
- Strong network within tech innovation ecosystems (Silicon Valley, Austin, etc.)
- Exceptional communication skills for translating complex futures into actionable strategies
- Certification in Foresight Methodology or equivalent preferred
- Portfolio demonstrating published foresight work or patented innovations