Head of Innovation Review

Leadership of the sustainable innovation function, including management of portfolio of clients, projects and activities. Design and development of opportunities. Creation and management of collaborations. Lead project manager on government-funded projects. Business model validation. Co-ordination of delivery to briefs. Staff management.

Development of business plans. Development and validation of market strategy, analysis, personas and plans. Operations management and integration with BAU management (and how that relates to change processes, particularly agile project management). Understanding of private equity and venture capital markets and the needs of investors. ESG factors.

The interaction with the cohort is excellent, with people bringing expertise, knowledge, experience and skills from different sectors, industries, geographies etc. The teaching ranges from academics who do not value practitioner experience to inspirational leaders who enable me to be the best I can be, both academically and professionally.

The organisation is excellent, with clear and well managed administration that inspires confidence in the processes. The course, however, lacks flexibility (for example, the modules are only available at fixed times each year) which draws out the process more than necessary.

Prior to me engaging with the programme, my employer had no knowledge of the opportunities that apprenticeships offered. Once they became aware, they were 100% behind me accessing the programme. There have been challenges with expectations, particularly on the flexibility of the programme to unforeseen circumstances.

The staff at the provider have been excellent. My tutor has been particularly outstanding in providing the support that I need to balance to different needs of the qualification, academic requirements, work, personal life and the administrative needs of the training provider and apprenticeship.

The current economic climate has put huge pressure on many businesses, and my company is not immune to the pressures. My role and responsibilities have expanded dramatically since my apprenticeship started and I am sure what I have gained through the apprenticeship has been critical in keeping the business afloat.

The business is small and so there are few opportunities for extra-curricular activities. I was hoping that the apprenticeship would open opportunities for me to gain better access but this has been limited. There are many less opportunities to play outside work designed for apprentices compared to university.

Yes

The team is awesome and the mission-led focus on sustainable innovation enables the employee to provide for their loved ones through enabling cool technologies that create societal good. It is a win win win.

This is a place to think big, and be part of something that will make a positive impact on millions of lives. However, it is not for the faint-hearted. Be prepared for the unexpected.