IT - Innovation Architect

Opportunity:

Are you passionate about pioneering new ideas and driving change? At DeVry University, we are looking for an innovative and forward-thinking Innovation Architect to join our dynamic team. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of education by designing and implementing cutting-edge solutions that empower our students, faculty, and staff to thrive in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

As our Innovation Architect, you will be at the forefront of transforming how we deliver education, using your expertise in emerging technologies and strategic vision to lead groundbreaking projects. You will collaborate with diverse teams across the university to identify opportunities for innovation and bring your ideas to life, creating real impact in the world of higher education.

This role is perfect for a visionary leader who is eager to push boundaries, explore new possibilities, and contribute to a mission-driven organization dedicated to closing the opportunity gap. If you are excited about making a difference and leading the charge in educational innovation, we want to hear from you!

Responsibilities:

• Innovation Strategy Development:
• Lead the creation and refinement of DeVry University’s innovation strategy, ensuring alignment with the institution's mission to close the opportunity gap for learners.
• Identify key areas where innovation can create a competitive advantage and enhance the student and faculty experience.
• Solution Design & Development:
• Architect and prototype innovative solutions, leveraging emerging technologies and methodologies, with a focus on improving educational outcomes and operational efficiency.
• Drive the end-to-end process of solution design, from ideation to execution, ensuring alignment with DeVry’s strategic goals.
• Technology & Trend Analysis:
• Monitor and analyze trends in technology, industry practices, and educational methodologies to identify opportunities for innovation at DeVry University.
• Evaluate and recommend new tools, platforms, and practices that can enhance the university’s innovation capabilities, particularly in the context of higher education.
• Cross-functional Collaboration:
• Partner with academic, IT, and administrative teams to align innovation initiatives with institutional objectives.
• Facilitate workshops and brainstorming sessions to foster collaborative innovation across DeVry University.
• Prototyping & Testing:
• Oversee the creation of prototypes and proof-of-concept projects to test and validate new ideas, with a focus on enhancing student success and operational efficiency.
• Implement agile methodologies to iterate quickly and refine concepts based on feedback and performance metrics.
• Change Management & Advocacy:
• Act as a change agent within DeVry University, promoting a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Communicate the value of innovation initiatives to stakeholders at all levels, securing buy-in and support.
• Project Management:
• Manage multiple innovation projects concurrently, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Develop detailed project plans, including timelines, resource allocation, and risk management strategies.
• Mentorship & Leadership:
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior team members and other departments in innovative thinking and practices.
• Foster a culture of learning and development, encouraging experimentation and creative problem-solving.
• Performance Measurement:
• Establish metrics to evaluate the success of innovation projects and initiatives.
• Regularly report on the progress and impact of innovation activities to senior leadership.

Qualifications:

• Education:
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Technology, Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree or additional certifications in innovation, design thinking, or technology management is preferred.
• Experience:
• 10+ year of experience in IT with 5-7 years of experience in innovation, product development, or a related role, with a proven track record of delivering successful innovation projects.
• Experience in a leadership or architect role is essential.
• Technical Skills:
• Strong understanding of emerging technologies (e.g., AI, IoT, blockchain) and their business applications.
• Proficiency in innovation frameworks and methodologies, such as design thinking, lean startup, or agile.
• Experience with the Salesforce ecosystem, including Salesforce CRM, AppExchange, and other Salesforce cloud solutions.
• Familiarity with the unique challenges and opportunities within higher education.
• Strategic & Analytical Skills:
• Ability to think strategically and translate business objectives into innovative solutions.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess the potential impact of new ideas and technologies.
• Communication & Collaboration:
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders.
• Leadership:
• Demonstrated leadership abilities, including experience in driving change and fostering a culture of innovation.
• Ability to mentor and inspire others, promoting a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.
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Preferred Qualifications:

• Certifications in innovation management, project management (e.g., PMP), or related areas.
• Experience with digital transformation initiatives or in a similar industry sector.
• Higher education experience, with knowledge of the unique challenges and opportunities within the academic environment.
• Familiarity with data-driven decision-making and performance measurement tools.