The Innovation Lead at Kenya Airways will play a pivotal role in implementing the company’s innovation agenda, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of the aviation industry. This individual focus on identifying, developing, and implementing innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency, increase revenues while minimizing costs, improve customer experience, and contribute to overall business growth.

Responsibilities

• Innovation Strategy: Implement a comprehensive innovation strategy aligned with the overall business objectives of Kenya Airways.
• Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration: Lead and inspire a cross-functional team of innovators, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Collaborate with various departments within Kenya Airways to understand their needs and challenges, integrating innovative solutions to address business priorities.
• Technology Scouting: Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends, identifying opportunities for technological innovation within the aviation sector.
• Partnership Development: Cultivate strategic partnerships with technology providers, startups, and industry leaders to accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions. Actively engage with the startup ecosystem to identify potential collaboration opportunities.
• Project Management: Oversee the end-to-end process of innovation projects, from ideation and conceptualization to pilot testing and full-scale implementation.
• Startup Collaboration: Foster relationships with startups and entrepreneurs, exploring potential collaborations, investments, and co-creation opportunities.
• Risk Management: Evaluate and mitigate potential risks associated with innovation projects, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Performance Measurement: Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the impact of innovation initiatives, continuously refining strategies based on data-driven insights.
• Budget Management: Manage the innovation budget efficiently, ensuring optimal allocation of resources for maximum impact.

Job Requirements        

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Technology, Business, Engineering, or related disciplines). Advanced degree (Master’s, MBA) preferred.
• Experience (5+ years) in a leadership role within an innovation or technology-focused environment, preferably in the aviation industry.
• Strong understanding of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, data analytics, and IoT.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive innovation projects from conception to implementation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate at all levels of the organization.
• Strategic thinker with a track record of developing and executing successful innovation strategies.