Job Description
Join NextGen Solutions Inc. at the forefront of tomorrow's innovation as our 2026 Futurist Innovation Lead. We're seeking a visionary strategist to architect breakthrough solutions for the post-2025 digital landscape. You'll drive cross-functional teams in developing AI-powered sustainability frameworks, quantum computing applications, and immersive metaverse experiences that will redefine human-machine collaboration. This role offers unparalleled influence in shaping our company's decade-long roadmap while working with cutting-edge technologies in a culture that rewards bold thinking.
Why NextGen? We're a B-Corporation certified leader in future-focused R&D, offering competitive equity packages, unlimited learning stipends, and flexible remote-first work. Our San Francisco hub is a hub of innovation where your ideas become reality.
Responsibilities
- Architect 5-10 year innovation roadmaps integrating AI, quantum computing, and biotech convergence
- Lead cross-functional teams in developing sustainable tech solutions for 2026+ challenges
- Establish strategic partnerships with academic institutions and emerging tech startups
- Conduct horizon scanning to identify disruptive technologies and market shifts
- Present future scenarios to C-suite executives and board members
- Mentor junior futurists and cultivate an innovation-first culture
- Drive prototyping of experimental technologies with $2M+ annual innovation budget
Qualifications
- 10+ years in strategic innovation, R&D leadership, or futurist consulting
- Proven track record of launching breakthrough technologies (AI/quantum/metaverse)
- Advanced degree in Technology, Engineering, or Future Studies (PhD preferred)
- Deep expertise in sustainability frameworks and circular economy principles
- Exceptional systems thinking and scenario planning capabilities
- Published thought leadership in future-tech publications (WIRED, MIT Tech Review)
- Experience with cross-cultural innovation teams and global market expansion
- Portfolio of 3+ patented or commercially deployed future-tech solutions