Assistant Manager, Innovation

Role Introduction Reports to: DGT&IT Ecosystem Partnership and Development Manager Join Cathay's Digital Department (DGT) and play a key role in driving innovation programmes, ecosystem partnerships, and digital transformation initiatives across the Group. This role supports the development of a culture of innovation by engaging employees, industry partners, startups, and technology leaders to identify and implement new opportunities. You will gain valuable exposure to emerging technologies, innovation programme management, startup ecosystems, and cross-functional digital projects while working with a diverse range of stakeholders across the organisation. Key Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate and execute innovation programmes and initiatives, including Cathay Hackathon, idea incubation, Cathay Accelerate, and other ecosystem-related activities, ensuring successful delivery against programme objectives and milestones
• Establish and maintain programme governance, trackers, reporting and stakeholder communications to provide timely visibility of progress, risks, dependencies and outcomes, enabling management and leadership teams to effectively monitor, steer and make informed decisions on innovation initiatives
• Conduct research and analysis to identify and evaluate emerging technologies and trends, and develop recommendations to support the the DGT&IT Ecosystem Partnership and Development Manager in making decisions
• Work with ecosystem partnership team to curate contents and speaker series on innovation and emerging technologies to inspire employees in Cathay
• Develop partnerships and driving synergy within the eco-system – with the start-up community, tech giants, consultants and organisations such as local universities, Cyberport and Hong Kong Science and Technology Park
• Oversee project management of digital initiatives, including developing and managing project plans and schedules, budgets, and resources
• Monitor project progress and coordinate with project teams and stakeholders to ensure alignment with business goals and milestones
• Collaborate with IT, Digital Experience, and the wider business units in managing our innovation pipeline, by understanding our customer needs and meeting them with data and technology
• Work with change champions and digital representatives across the organisation to ensure successful delivery of innovation projects
• Provide thought leadership and expert advice on digital innovation best practices and trends in the aviation industry Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Computer Science, Analytics, Engineering, or a related discipline
• 4-6 years of experience in Digital, Information Technology, innovation, consulting, startup ecosystems, or related fields
• Experience managing innovation programmes, digital initiatives, startup collaborations, or cross-functional projects
• Strong project management, organisation, and execution skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Knowledge of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, data analytics, and digital platforms
• Proven stakeholder management skills with experience working across business, technology, and external partner groups
• Ability to conduct research, analyse information, and develop evidence-based recommendations
• Familiarity with Agile methodologies, project management tools, and innovation frameworks
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and engage diverse audiences
• Proactive, resourceful, and self-motivated individual with a strong passion for digital innovation, technology trends, and continuous learning Personal & Application Information