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PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

The Innovation Scout is responsible for supporting the identification, evaluation, and sourcing of external innovation opportunities that align with the Group’s strategic priorities and the operational requirements of its operating companies. The role supports the development of a sustainable pipeline of high-impact opportunities by connecting the organisation with relevant technologies, startups, and industry developments.

Reporting to the Innovation Manager, the Innovation Scout contributes to translating emerging trends and external insights into practical, business-relevant opportunities that inform decision-making and strengthen the Group’s long-term competitiveness.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Innovation Management, Engineering, Technology, or a related discipline.
• 3–5 years’ relevant experience in innovation, strategy, research, consulting, or a comparable environment.
• Demonstrated understanding of innovation ecosystems, emerging technologies, and industry trends.
• Strong analytical and research capabilities, with the ability to assess opportunities and articulate business value.
• Proficiency in MS Excel and presentation tools.
• A postgraduate qualification in Innovation, Strategy, Foresight, or Technology will be an added advantage.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Innovation Opportunity Identification

• Support in identifying and sourcing innovation opportunities, including technologies, startups, and partnership prospects, aligned with business priorities.
• Support the evaluation of opportunities based on strategic alignment, feasibility, and potential value.
• Develop high-level opportunity briefs and indicative use cases.
• Support the prioritisation of opportunities for further assessment and potential pilot initiatives.

Business Unit Engagement and Alignment

• Engage with operating companies to understand key challenges, inefficiencies, and growth opportunities.
• Support translating business requirements into targeted innovation search areas.
• Conduct scouting activities in alignment with Group strategy and direction provided by the Innovation Manager.
• Support facilitating engagements between external solution providers and internal stakeholders.
• Support contributing to the prioritisation of opportunities across multiple business units.

Ecosystem Development and Partner Sourcing

• Establish and maintain relationships with startups, innovation hubs, accelerators, universities, research institutions, and industry experts.
• Identify potential partners, vendors, and collaboration opportunities.
• Represent the organisation within relevant innovation ecosystems in coordination with the Innovation Manager.
• Monitor and support the evaluation of external solution providers.

Opportunity Evaluation and Handover Support

• Conduct high-level feasibility assessments (excluding detailed financial modelling).
• Support translating opportunities into clear problem–solution fit and indicative value propositions.
• Prepare decision-support documentation, including opportunity briefs and business canvases.
• Present findings to the Innovation Manager and relevant governance structures.
• Support the transition of validated opportunities into pilot and implementation phases.

• Execute other duties as and when required.

Reporting Requirements

• Support tracking and reporting on innovation opportunities identified and progressed.
• Support providing visibility of innovative activities across the Group.
• Deliver regular updates and insights to the Innovation Manager and relevant stakeholders.

 O&L - a Great Place to Work.

Applicants meeting our requirements are invited to apply. O&L Group of Companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

    "This position is subject to a pre-employment screening and vetting process, and by applying for this position, applicants acknowledge that they are aware that the Company reserves the right to carry out screening and pre-employment vetting for all shortlisted applicants. Certificate of Conduct issued by the Namibian Police (not older than 6 months) may be required from all shortlisted applicants."

Requisition ID: 5668