Head of Technology & Innovation (Geovation Incubator)
Location: Farringdon, London (Minimum 3 days onsite)
Type: Full-time
About the Role
Help shape the future of geospatial innovation and next-generation location-powered products.
Geovation is our clients external innovation and R&D function, working with startups, founders, and partners to explore new applications of location data and turn ideas into reality.
Based in the vibrant Farringdon hub, you will sit at the core of innovation—leading research-led experimentation, accelerating product development, and translating insights into outcomes that drive OS’s future strategy.
Why This Role Matters
Geovation expands OS’s impact beyond traditional geospatial applications by:
* Nurturing early-stage startups
* Building partnerships
* Identifying emerging technologies and markets
You will lead Geovation’s Incubator Programme, which:
* Explores new ideas and applications of location data
* Generates insights to inform OS’s strategic direction
This role operates like a CTO within an innovation environment, combining:
* Technical leadership
* Product thinking
* Innovation strategy
Key Responsibilities
Leadership – Incubator Team
* Lead a multidisciplinary team (technical & non-technical)
* Own and deliver the Incubator programme
* Select startups and tailor bespoke support packages
* Oversee hypothesis-driven PoC experiments delivering:
* Insight for OS
* IP/value for startups
* Design and deliver agile, sprint-based innovation programmes
* Implement design-led methodologies and best practice agile approaches
* Contribute to consultancy revenue (£50k–£100k annually)
Technical Leadership
* Act as a thought leader across:
* Emerging technologies
* Translate complex technical concepts for varied audiences
Technical Management
* Strengthen R&D and product development capabilities
* Maintain modern tools, processes, and technical standards
* Mentor and develop team technical skills
* 5–10+ years in geospatial and/or software development
* Experience across multiple tools, languages, and SDLC
* 3–5 years leadership experience managing high-performing teams
* 2–3 years working with or supporting startups
* Innovation programmes
* Research initiatives
* Experimental validation (hypothesis-led)
* Strong awareness of emerging tech trends
* Excellent communication and influencing skills
* Product-led, design-thinking mindset
* Startup mentoring or advisory experience
* Background in incubators/accelerators/innovation labs
* Experience with geospatial or location-based technologies
* Experience generating consultancy revenue
* Programme management or externally funded projects experience
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