Job Description
Join Horizon Labs as we pioneer the next frontier of human advancement. We're seeking a visionary Futurist Strategy Director to architect our roadmap for 2026 and beyond. In this pivotal role, you'll decode emerging technologies, societal shifts, and market disruptions to shape our next-generation innovation portfolio. Your strategic foresight will directly influence product development, investment decisions, and organizational evolution at the intersection of AI, biotech, and sustainable systems.
As a thought leader in our Austin-based innovation hub, you'll collaborate with C-suite executives, research partners, and global think tanks to build actionable futurescapes. This is your chance to transform theoretical foresight into tangible competitive advantage while mentoring a team of future-focused strategists.
Responsibilities
- Analyze emerging tech trends (quantum computing, neurotech, climate engineering) to identify strategic opportunities for 2026 market disruption
- Develop scenario-based strategic frameworks for product roadmaps and R&D investments
- Lead cross-functional 'Future Labs' to prototype solutions for anticipated societal challenges
- Establish KPIs for measuring organizational readiness for 2026 technological inflection points
- Author quarterly foresight reports for executive board and investor stakeholders
- Build external partnerships with academic institutions and government futurist programs
- Mentor a team of junior futurists using structured horizon scanning methodologies
Qualifications
- Master's degree in Futures Studies, Strategic Foresight, or related field with 10+ years of strategic planning experience
- Proven track record of translating foresight into commercial products or policy frameworks
- Deep expertise in exponential technologies (AI/ML, synthetic biology, quantum systems)
- Certification in scenario planning or horizon scanning methodologies preferred
- Experience presenting to C-suite audiences and influencing high-stakes decisions
- Published thought leadership in futurist publications (e.g., Futures Journal, HBR)
- Strong network with global futurist communities and innovation ecosystems
- Exceptional analytical skills with ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights