The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
From Manager, Innovation Portfolio (L5)
3-5 years as an L5Skills to master
- At L5, you'd have mastered managing a specific innovation portfolio and a team of strategists. To move to Director, you need to broaden your strategic scope, take on P&L accountability for a larger business unit, and significantly increase your board-level influence and external partnership management.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully launched 2-3 significant new products that generated substantial revenue.
- Consistently exceeded portfolio ROI targets.
- Developed and promoted at least two direct reports into more senior roles.
- Took the lead on a major strategic external partnership or corporate venture initiative.
- 2
From Head of R&D / Product Development (within a different business unit)
5-8 years in a similar leadership roleSkills to master
- This path requires a strong understanding of product development and R&D execution. To become a Global Innovation Director, you'd need to hone your strategic foresight, open innovation capabilities, and ability to manage a portfolio of early-stage, often higher-risk, ventures rather than just product iterations.
You're ready to move on when
- Demonstrated strong strategic thinking beyond incremental product improvements.
- Successfully led a team through a significant technological pivot or market disruption.
- Proven ability to build and influence cross-functional teams outside of direct reporting lines.
- Developed a deep understanding of financial modelling for long-term, uncertain investments.
- 3
From External Senior Innovation Leader
Direct entry, assuming relevant experienceSkills to master
- You'd need to quickly understand our company culture, internal processes, and specific industry dynamics. Your ability to build credibility and influence rapidly across a new organisation would be paramount.
You're ready to move on when
- A track record of leading innovation at a comparable scale and complexity in a relevant industry.
- Strong network and reputation in the innovation ecosystem.
- Proven ability to quickly adapt to new organisational structures and drive change.
- Excellent cultural fit and leadership style aligned with our values.