Head of Innovation; Hybrid - onsite

Head of Innovation

Warrington (Hybrid - 3 days onsite). Competitive Salary + £5,000 Car Allowance + Bonus + Exceptional Benefits

Are you ready to lead innovation that transforms critical infrastructure and services at scale?

The organisation I am representing is entering a major transformation period and innovation will be central to how they deliver smarter, more sustainable, and more efficient services. They are looking for a visionary Head of Innovation to drive forward‑thinking strategies, unlock emerging technologies, and deliver real impact.

This is a career-defining leadership opportunity to influence strategy, shape long‑term investment decisions, and lead innovation across a complex, highly regulated environment.

• Play a key role in large‑scale transformation and innovation programmes
• Work with cutting‑edge technologies (AI, digital twins, data & analytics)
• Influence strategic investment and long‑term business direction
• Hybrid working with strong work‑life balance
• Inclusive, forward‑thinking culture that supports growth and experimentation

• Set the Innovation Strategy: Define and deliver a clear innovation roadmap aligned to long‑term business goals
• Turn Ideas into Impact: Translate bold ideas into practical, scalable solutions that drive efficiency and performance
• Build Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with startups, academia, and industry partners to accelerate innovation
• Manage the Innovation Portfolio: Oversee a pipeline of initiatives from early‑stage concepts through to scaled delivery
• Drive Digital & Data Transformation: Leverage AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics to improve decision‑making and operations
• Embed a Culture of Innovation: Champion experimentation, continuous improvement, and cross‑functional collaboration

• Proven experience leading innovation or transformation strategy in complex organisations
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to build compelling business cases
• Experience working in regulated or asset‑heavy environments (desirable, not essential)
• Exposure to emerging technologies (AI, data, digital solutions)
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence at exec level
• Passion for innovation, sustainability, and driving meaningful change

• 26 days holiday (rising to 30) + bank holidays
• Performance‑related bonus (up to 20%)
• £5,000 car allowance
• Competitive pension & benefits package
• Healthcare & wellbeing support
• Flexible benefits and lifestyle discounts
• Enhanced parental leave
• Ongoing development and career progression opportunities

If you're excited by the opportunity to shape innovation at scale and drive tangible change, we'd love to hear from you.