Corporate Innovation Analyst

RTI International (RTI) is an independent, nonprofit research institute dedicated to improving the human condition. Our vision is to address the world's most critical problems with science-based solutions in pursuit of a better future. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach-one that integrates expertise across the social and laboratory sciences, engineering, and international development. Our staff of nearly 6,000 works in more than 75 countries-tackling hundreds of projects each year to address complex social and scientific challenges on behalf of governments, businesses, foundations, universities, and other clients and partners.

We are seeking a Corporate Innovation Analyst. The Corporate Innovation Analyst plays a pivotal role in propelling RTI's innovation initiatives forward, acting as a catalyst for strategic growth. This dynamic position involves working directly with the Sr Director of Innovation, Innovation Managers, and diverse teams of researchers across the organization to apply methods of innovation to understand a variety of complex problem spaces, design workshops, and lead teams to quickly test assumptions and validate proposed solutions. This role would support the planning, execution, and operational needs of RTI's Innovation Team, with an initial focus on ideation and incubation processes.

• Organizes and facilitates various types of innovation workshops (e.g., design sprints, hackathons, and accelerators) to generate potential solutions for growth.
• Facilitate workshops using various techniques to encourage idea generation and collaboration, fostering collaboration among diverse participants, encouraging cross-functional teaming.
• Manage pre-workshop planning, workshop execution, and follow-up actions to ensure desired business outcomes.
• Lead stakeholder interviews and analyze themes to refine workshop objectives and agenda.
• Design and implement concept validation strategies using qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Conduct research to collect data and background information for innovation projects.
• Analyze validation results using statistical techniques to determine optimal concept combinations.
• Provide training and assistance to staff responsible for the development and implementation of innovation plans.
• Use storytelling to inspire confidence and foster a culture of innovation within the organization.
• Craft compelling narratives to communicate innovative concepts and strategies through various internal and external channels, including business development and marketing campaigns, newsletters, town halls, and regular innovation events.
• Provide operational support throughout the innovation process (e.g., notetaking for Scoping Calls, set up MS Teams site, coordinate meetings with potential partners, logistics).

• Bachelor's Degree and 3 years of experience, Master's degree and 1 year of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Bachelor's degree in business, data analysis, applied social sciences or a related field.
• 2-5 years of experience in innovation management, data analysis, or a similar role.
• Experience supporting innovation at an innovation lab, accelerator, incubator or venture builder.
• Knowledge of innovation methodologies, frameworks, concept validation techniques (e.g., Design Thinking, Design Sprint, Lean Startup, Agile Stage-Gate).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent facilitation and presentation abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools.
• Fluent in the use of AI productivity tools.
• Familiarity with emerging technologies and their potential impact on the market.
• Familiarity with federal government market and/or commercial health market.