Chief Specialist - Innovation | UAE National

Job PurposeAdvance the Authority’s innovation agenda by executing strategy, policies, labs, IP and startup frameworks; integrate the innovation axis with R&D; and deliver measurable, compliant outcomes that raise maturity, embed culture, and convert ideas into high-impact initiatives across agencies and sectors.ResponsibilitiesStrategy Develop and maintain innovation policies, processes, frameworks and manuals aligned to RTA strategy and leading practices.Translate the innovation axis within the R&D strategy into clear objectives, indicators and plans with concerned units.Define and socialize the startup cooperation and incubation framework, selection criteria and governance in line with regulations.Establish the Authority’s intellectual property governance framework with Assets, Commercial/Investment and MarCom departments.Promote innovation and competitiveness culture through structured training, workshops and Authority-wide events.Operations Implement the Innovation Management System; monitor performance; prepare periodic progress and corrective-action reports with stakeholders.Operate the ideas management system; review submissions from approved channels; track feasibility, initiatives, impact and closure within SLA.Manage IP lifecycle: inventory, registration, renewal and evidence; sustain and update the Authority’s IP database.Prepare and execute annual plans for innovation labs; attract viable ideas; coordinate delivery with institutions and sectors.Follow up and evaluate grievances/complaints related to idea labs; ensure compliance with approved procedures.Support the business incubator for startups and entrepreneurs; implement enabling policies, programs and initiatives.Manage implementation of the innovation management framework plan; coordinate projects that close DGEP-related improvement opportunitiesDevelop cooperation and partnership relationships across the innovation ecosystem to strengthen RTA’s leadership.Coordinate operations and event plans for the TRIP Center in collaboration with concerned departments.Product/Process Improvement Measure and analyze innovation KPIs and maturity across agencies/sectors; recommend and track developmental actions.Standardize data, reporting and feedback loops for ideas, labs, IP and startups to drive timely decisions and continuous improvement.Provide hands-on support to sectors/agencies on innovation management tools and practices and document lessons learned Authority-wide.QualificationsBachelor’s/ Master’s degree in Business/Engineering/Public AdministrationMust have minimum 9+ years of experience in case of Master’s degree (11+ years in case of Bachelor’s degree)Experience in executing innovation frameworks, labs, IP, ideas & maturity assessmentsPreferred Certifications: PMP/GInI, GIMI Innovation practitioner certificate; ISO 56002 Practitioner, PRINCE2 Foundation/ CAPM, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Data & BI fundamentals (Power BI/analytics)