Vice President, Innovation

TITLE: Vice President, Innovation

REPORTS TO: Chief Operating Officer

DEPARTMENT: Member Advancement

SUPERVISES: TBD

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

INCUMBENT: None

BASIC FUNCTION:

The Vice President of Innovation will play a crucial role in setting up, organizing, and coordinating pilots across the Goodwill network, with the goal of transforming how we work together in solving some of our most pressing business challenges. This position will be responsible for leading innovative initiatives, fostering a culture of creativity, and driving transformative projects that align with Goodwill's mission and strategic goals.

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

1. Innovation Leadership:

· Develop and implement a comprehensive innovation strategy aligned with GII’s new strategic plan.

· Foster a culture of innovation across the organization, encouraging, creative thinking and problem-solving.

2. Pilot Program Development and Coordination:

· Identify and develop pilot programs that have the potential to transform operational practices and enhance mission impact.

· Organize and coordinate pilot projects across the Goodwill network, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and goals.

· Establish metrics for pilot success and ensure rigorous evaluation and reporting of pilot outcomes.

3. Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:

· Work closely with the CEO, COO, Chief Strategy Officer, and other executive leaders to integrate innovation into the broader strategic framework.

· Engage with local Goodwill organizations to understand their challenges and opportunities, tailoring innovation initiatives to meet their needs.

· Build and maintain relationships with external partners, including technology providers, academic institutions, and other nonprofit organizations, to leverage external expertise and resources.

4. Capacity Building:

· Develop and deliver training programs to build innovation capacity within the Goodwill network.

· Provide mentorship and support to team members involved in innovation projects, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.

5. Project Management:

· Oversee the day-to-day management of innovation projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

· Implement effective project management processes and tools to track progress, manage risks, and communicate updates to stakeholders.

RELATIONSHIPS:

· Internal: Daily contact with the CEO, COO and GII staff; regular contact with executive leadership.

· GII Members: Frequent contact with GII members to support innovation initiatives and gather feedback.

· Outside: Regular contact with external partners, including technology providers, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations.

· Government Officials: Occasional contact as required by specific projects.

SKILLS NEEDED:

· Strong understanding of the Goodwill business model and the major business lines of the organization.

· Demonstrated competency in forward-thinking project management, including the ability to develop and implement strategic initiatives.

· Excellent oral and written communication skills; effective presentation skills.

· Strong project management skills, with the ability to effectively organize information and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

· Ability to build trust, demonstrate integrity, foster a culture of inclusivity and credibility with GII team members, GII Board Members, Goodwill members, and other stakeholders.

· Demonstrate a high standard of ethics.

· Proficiency in project management software, web research, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook required.

· Ability to travel as required (25-50%).

EDUCATION:

· Bachelor’s degree in business administration, organizational development, innovation management, or other appropriate disciplines. Master’s degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

· Ten or more years of experience working in or with a leading non-profit or retail organization, including experience with innovation management and governance best practices.

DECISION MAKING:

· Uses expertise to make decisions related to innovation priorities, project budgets, and time management.

SUPERVISION:

· To be determined based upon resources required to execute.

PHYSICAL EFFORT:

· Sedentary lifting 10 lbs. maximum. Walking or standing is required only occasionally. Requires long hours at a computer.

EMOTIONAL EFFORT:

· Work environment usually hectic with periods of high stress. Will need a positive attitude to meet daily challenges.