About the
Role
The Head, Innovation
& R&D Studio explores emerging technologies and develops new solutions
to drive Polaris Bank's future growth. This role directs three functions —
Emerging Technology Research, Rapid Prototyping, and Proof of Concept
Development — through specialist leads and engineers.
Key
Responsibilities
Emerging
Technology Research Oversight
- Direct research into AI, blockchain,
IoT, and other emerging technologies relevant to banking
- Maintain a technology foresight
function that keeps the bank ahead of market shifts
Rapid
Prototyping Oversight
- Oversee the development of MVPs and
prototypes to test new concepts quickly
- Drive design sprint practices that
reduce time-to-market for new ideas
Proof of
Concept Development Oversight
- Direct the development and validation
of PoCs with partners and customers
- Ensure innovation pilots are
rigorously evaluated before recommending further investment
Core
Competencies
- Technology foresight and innovation
strategy
- Rapid prototyping and design sprint
facilitation
- Business case development and
investment validation
- Partner and cross-functional
collaboration
Familiarity
With Tools (used by the function's teams)
Industry research and
technology scouting platforms; Figma, InVision, low-code/no-code platforms; PoC
frameworks, validation and collaboration tools
Requirements
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science,
Engineering, or related field; advanced degree an advantage
- Demonstrated track record leading
innovation, R&D, or new product incubation functions, ideally in
banking or a comparable regulated industry
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
- Demonstrated track record leading innovation, R&D, or new product incubation functions
- Experience with technology foresight and innovation strategy
- Experience in rapid prototyping, MVP development, and design sprint facilitation
- Business case development and investment validation experience
- Partner and cross-functional collaboration experience
- Familiarity with Figma, InVision and low-code/no-code platforms
- Advanced degree (Master's/PhD)
- Experience in banking or comparable regulated industry
What We Do
Polaris Bank is a forward-thinking financial institution committed to delivering customer-first banking experiences across Nigeria, offering tailored solutions for individuals, SMEs, corporates, and government institutions.
