Innovation Manager

Summary

Identifies, evaluates, develops and negotiates new utility scale growth opportunities for NYPA. Works across multiple functions within the organization such as, but not limited to: transmission planning, legal, finance, engineering, EH&S and real estate.  Identifies and negotiates strategic partnerships and collaboration opportunities with both internal and external stakeholders. Project origination includes identification of opportunity and technical solution, development of project applications and maintaining regulatory compliance.  Tracks investments across new project development initiatives.  Provides regulatory compliance oversight as projects are executed.  

Leads and implements a foundational change in how we deliver value to our internal and external customers. Champions the application of digital capabilities to processes, products, and assets to improve internal efficiency, and enhance customer value, manage risk, and uncover new monetization opportunities. Adapts digitalization strategy to map changing business requirements brought about by customer demand and technology. Enables transformation of business and organizational activities, processes, competencies, and models to fully leverage the changes and opportunities of a mix of digital technologies and their accelerating impact across NYPA, Canals, our customers, and the State of New York in a strategic and prioritized way, with present and future shifts in mind. #LI-VB1
 

Responsibilities

• Lead Innovation Engagement Programs: Design and manage initiatives that promote innovation culture, including idea campaigns, internal challenges, and key NYPA/Canals programs
• Manage the Innovation Pipeline: Oversee the intake, evaluation, and support of employee-submitted ideas; connect staff to tools, mentors, and resources to help move ideas forward.
• Facilitate Learning and Workshops: Deliver training sessions and workshops on topics such as human-centered design, lean experimentation, and creative problem solving.
• Drive Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with HR, DEI, Talent Development, Communications, and business units to embed innovation practices into onboarding, engagement, and performance programs.
• Track Progress and Share Results: Define and monitor key metrics related to innovation, participation and outcomes. Develop regular reporting and internal communications to showcase progress and highlight success stories.
• Support Strategic Execution: Align cultural initiatives with NYPA’s broader innovation strategy and digital transformation goals.
• Contribute to planning, maturity assessments, and capability-building initiatives
   

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong understanding of innovation methodologies (e.g., design thinking, lean startup, agile).
• Knowledge of cultural change, employee engagement, and adult learning theory.
• Ability to design and facilitate effective workshops and group sessions.
• Skilled in managing programs from planning through evaluation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex concepts for broad audiences.
• Comfortable using metrics to drive improvement and measure impact.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships, influence others, and work across departments.
• Flexible, adaptable, and comfortable navigating change and ambiguity.
• Committed to fostering an inclusive and psychologically safe work environment.
   

Education, Experience and Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Development, Business, Innovation, or a related field required, Master’s Degree preferred.
• Minimum 6 years’ experience in innovation, change management, organizational development, or related roles.
• Experience leading internal innovation or employee engagement programs.
• Strong facilitation and program management experience in a complex or regulated organization.
• Prior experience in public sector or energy/utilities preferred.

Physical Requirements