Head, Innovation & R&D Studio

About the Role

The Head, Innovation & R&D Studio explores emerging technologies and develops new solutions to drive Polaris Bank’s future growth. This role directs three functions — Emerging Technology Research, Rapid Prototyping, and Proof of Concept Development — through specialist leads and engineers.

Key Responsibilities

Emerging Technology Research Oversight

• Direct research into AI, blockchain, IoT, and other emerging technologies relevant to banking
• Maintain a technology foresight function that keeps the bank ahead of market shifts

Rapid Prototyping Oversight

• Oversee the development of MVPs and prototypes to test new concepts quickly
• Drive design sprint practices that reduce time-to-market for new ideas

Proof of Concept Development Oversight

• Direct the development and validation of PoCs with partners and customers
• Ensure innovation pilots are rigorously evaluated before recommending further investment

Core Competencies

• Technology foresight and innovation strategy
• Rapid prototyping and design sprint facilitation
• Business case development and investment validation
• Partner and cross-functional collaboration

Familiarity With Tools (used by the function’s teams)

Industry research and technology scouting platforms; Figma, InVision, low-code/no-code platforms; PoC frameworks, validation and collaboration tools

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; advanced degree an advantage
• Demonstrated track record leading innovation, R&D, or new product incubation functions, ideally in banking or a comparable regulated industry
• 5+ years of work experience