Job Description
Join NextGen Labs at the forefront of technological evolution as we pioneer solutions for 2026 and beyond. We seek a visionary Futurist Innovation Lead to architect our next-generation digital ecosystem. This role demands a strategic mind who can translate emerging trends into actionable business frameworks while driving cross-functional collaboration in our Austin headquarters.
As a key architect of our future roadmap, you'll work with quantum computing pioneers, AI ethicists, and biotech innovators to create sustainable solutions for tomorrow's challenges. Our culture values intellectual curiosity, rapid prototyping, and boundaryless thinking.
Responsibilities
- Develop 5-year technology roadmaps aligning with 2026 industry forecasts
- Lead cross-functional teams in prototyping future-facing digital products
- Analyze emerging tech trends (quantum computing, synthetic biology, AGI) for commercial viability
- Partner with C-suite executives to integrate innovation into core business strategy
- Present future scenarios to investors and board members through compelling narratives
- Mentor junior futurists in strategic foresight methodologies
- Secure $5M+ annual R&D budget for experimental projects
Qualifications
- 10+ years in technology strategy or innovation leadership
- Proven track record in commercializing emerging technologies
- Advanced degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or Futurology
- Deep expertise in at least two future-tech domains (quantum, AI, bio-tech)
- Experience with scenario planning and horizon scanning methodologies
- Published thought leadership in tech innovation publications
- Strong financial modeling skills for R&D budget allocation
- Certification in Strategic Foresight or equivalent preferred