Office of Innovation Director
Today• Montpellier, France
Job Description Summary
We are seeking a visionary Office of Innovation Director to lead our technology strategy and drive breakthrough innovations in software-defined automation solutions for the modern electric grid. This senior leadership role will spearhead the development of next-generation protection, automation, and control, sensing and communications technologies, leveraging advanced and emerging technologies while fostering deep customer partnerships and industry collaboration.
Job Description
Key Responsibilities
- Define and execute comprehensive innovation strategy aligned with grid modernization and industry electrification trends
- Identify emerging technologies and assess their potential impact on utility and industrial customers operations. Contribute to technology roadmaps development
- Drive New Technology Introduction initiatives that fuel our software-defined automation solutions differentiation
- Lead mission-based teams delivering customer-focused innovative solutions for digital transformation of substations and grid networks, with the goal to accelerate the energy transition journey
- Lead customer proof-of-concept projects from conception through successful deployment
- Coordinate with R&D, product management, and commercial teams to identify innovation collaboration opportunities with customers
- Build and maintain strategic relationships with utility customers, research institutions, and technology partners
- Represent the company at industry conferences, standards committees, and technical forums
- Collaborate with utilities on future grid architecture and operational requirements
- Build and lead a high-performing innovation team
- Foster a culture of creativity, experimentation, and rapid prototyping
- Mentor technical staff and guide professional development
Required Qualifications
- Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field
- Minimum of 12 years experience in power systems, grid automation, or related technology sectors
- Minimum of 5 years in senior leadership roles managing innovation or R&D organizations
Desired Characteristics
- Proven track record of bringing innovative products from concept to market
- Deep understanding of the electric grid ecosystem including assets, protection, automation, monitoring and diagnostics, communications, customers, markets
- Experience with software-defined systems, virtualization, and cloud computing architectures
- Knowledge of AI/ML applications in industrial automation and grid operations
- Familiarity with grid communication protocols (IEC 61850, DNP3, GOOSE) and cybersecurity
- Demonstrated ability to translate technical vision into business strategy
- Strong project management skills with experience leading complex, multi-disciplinary initiatives
- Excellent communication skills with ability to present to technical and executive audiences
- Experience managing customer relationships and collaborative development projects
- Experience with utility industry standards and regulatory environments
- Background in digital transformation initiatives within traditional industries
- Prior experience with proof-of-concept development and technology validation
- Published research or patents in relevant technical areas
- Professional certifications in project management or innovation methodologies
Want more jobs like this?
Get jobs in Montpellier, France delivered to your inbox every week.
For candidates applying to a Canadian-based position, the pay range for this position is between $171,000 and $256,000 CAD. The specific pay offered may be influenced by a variety of factors, including the candidate's experience, education, and skill set.
Bonus eligibility: discretionary annual bonus.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
For US Based Candidates*
The base pay range for this position is 152,400.00 - 254,000.00 USD Annual The specific pay offered may be influenced by a variety of factors, including the candidate's experience, education, and skill set.
The Company pays a geographic differential of 110%, 120% or 130% of salary in certain areas.
Application Deadline: February 23, 2026
Client-provided location(s): Montpellier, France
Job ID: GE_power-828026720
Employment Type: FULL_TIME
Posted: 2026-02-06T18:32:33
Perks and Benefits
Health and Wellness
- Health Insurance
- Health Reimbursement Account
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- FSA
- FSA With Employer Contribution
- HSA
- HSA With Employer Contribution
- Fitness Subsidies
- On-Site Gym
- Mental Health Benefits
Parental Benefits
- Adoption Assistance Program
- Family Support Resources
- Birth Parent or Maternity Leave
- Adoption Leave
Work Flexibility
- Flexible Work Hours
- Remote Work Opportunities
- Hybrid Work Opportunities
Office Life and Perks
- Commuter Benefits Program
- Casual Dress
- On-Site Cafeteria
- Holiday Events
Vacation and Time Off
- Unlimited Paid Time Off
- Paid Holidays
- Personal/Sick Days
- Summer Fridays
Financial and Retirement
- 401(K)
- Stock Purchase Program
- Performance Bonus
- Relocation Assistance
- Financial Counseling
- Profit Sharing
Professional Development
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Access to Online Courses
- Lunch and Learns
- Leadership Training Program
- Internship Program
- Associate or Rotational Training Program
Diversity and Inclusion
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program
- Employee Resource Groups (ERG)
- Unconscious Bias Training
Company Videos
Hear directly from employees about what it is like to work at GE Vernova.