Innovation Manager

In this role, you will be responsible for identifying and evaluating deeptech opportunities from IIT Madras and partner universities. This includes scouting and assessing innovation topics, evaluating ideas based on desirability, feasibility, and viability for ZEISS. Your key responsibilities will include developing and managing relationships with academic institutions, startups, and ZEISS departments globally. You will act as a key point of contact for the Innovation Hub Chennai. As part of your role, you will lead studies on emerging technologies and market trends, identify customer needs, and define solution concepts with interdisciplinary teams. You will also drive the development of proof-of-concept demonstrators and prototypes, managing internal and external partners to ensure knowledge transfer to ZEISS business units. Additionally, you will facilitate the transition of innovative concepts into ZEISS business operations, support internal venturing and incubation through structured proposals and business plans, and identify startups relevant to the Innovation Hub's focus areas for collaboration or investment opportunities aligned with ZEISS strategy. Furthermore, you will play a role in promoting innovation culture within teams, encouraging a "together we go far" and "just do it" mindset. This includes fostering creativity, agile collaboration, and cross-border innovation practices. Qualifications Required: - University degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) - MBA, PhD, M Tech, or equivalent experience mandatory Experience: - 3-4 years of professional experience in consulting, innovation management, or venturing after academic education, with 8 to 10 years of overall experience - Experience in coordinating cross-functional and external teams Knowledge / Skills: - Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills - Familiarity with tools like CRM software, Miro, Power BI, SharpCloud - Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities - Hands-on, collaborative mindset with perseverance in idea development - Fluent in English Working Conditions & Other Attributes: - Based at IIT Madras Research Park, Chennai (on-site) - Local candidates preferred, hybrid work to be discussed for exceptionally suitable outstation candidates - Dynamic, interdisciplinary, and entrepreneurial environment - Occasional domestic and international travel,