Job Description
Join Horizon Ventures at the forefront of tomorrow's economy as our 2026 Futurist & Innovation Lead. We're seeking a visionary strategist to architect our roadmap for the next technological paradigm shift. You'll collaborate with C-suite executives, lead cross-functional innovation sprints, and translate emerging trends into actionable business strategies. This role combines deep technological foresight with commercial acumen to position our portfolio companies as industry pioneers in the 2026 landscape.
Why Horizon Ventures? We're an Austin-based venture capital firm specializing in pre-seed to Series B investments in exponential technologies. Our portfolio includes quantum computing, synthetic biology, and AI infrastructure startups. We offer competitive equity, flexible work arrangements, and a dedicated innovation lab at our downtown headquarters.
Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain a comprehensive 2026 technology horizon scan across AI, biotech, quantum, and climate tech domains
- Lead quarterly innovation workshops with portfolio companies to identify disruptive opportunities
- Produce trend reports and scenario analyses for investment committee decision-making
- Build and manage a global network of futurists, academic researchers, and industry pioneers
- Design and execute pilot programs for emerging technologies with portfolio companies
- Advise leadership on long-term strategic implications of technological convergence
- Represent Horizon Ventures at global innovation forums and thought leadership summits
Qualifications
- 10+ years in strategic foresight, innovation consulting, or venture capital with tech focus
- Proven track record of developing and implementing future-oriented business strategies
- Deep expertise in at least two exponential technology domains (AI/ML, quantum, synthetic biology, etc.)
- Exceptional communication skills with ability to translate complex concepts for diverse stakeholders
- Experience leading cross-functional teams through ambiguous innovation challenges
- Advanced degree in technology, business, or futures studies (PhD/MSc preferred)
- Published thought leadership in futurism or innovation strategy (articles, books, research)