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The Innovation Manager develops and executes the vision for Orange County’s innovation initiative. The manager is responsible for implementing creative strategies to create a work environment that utilizes design thinking methodologies and a human centered approach to solve issues for our employees, citizens and community.

Work is performed with considerable independence under the supervision of the Assistant County Administrator. Performance is reviewed through observations, reports and results achieved.

Duties may vary based on area of assignment. The following are representative duties, it is not the intent to capture all duties performed by this classification.

• Provides leadership, direction and planning for operations and creation of innovative County culture.
• Ensuring all directives, decisions and policies of the County are supported through innovation, collaboration and inclusion.
• Implements professional development that supports innovation, collaboration and inclusion for County employees.
• Oversees budget and operational staff for the innovation initiatives and lab.
• Responsible for the completion of the County’s First Innovation Lab and establishing a sustainable operational plan that engages community partners, county employees and the community.
• Pursuit and Management of Grants, Contracts, Sponsorships and partnerships to support the programs and operations of the Innovation Lab and Programs.
• Manages special projects assigned by the County Mayor, County Administration and their leadership staff.
• Provides policy recommendations to County Administrator and County Mayor on county challenges.
• Develops and maintain a community innovation internship program.
• Collaborates with Chief Innovation and Emerging Technology Officer to maintain strategic alignment and advance the growth of key innovation partnerships.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Public Administration, Entrepreneurship, Business, Technology, Innovation Management, Arts or closely related field and three (3) years of supervisory experience in Project Management, Technology or Innovation. In lieu of the degree requirements, additional relevant experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.

Diverse experience in various aspects of local government and a track record of innovation, collaboration and inclusion.