Innovation Managers: 3 Key Aspects of the Profession

Contents:

• Pavel Belov
• "People are the main resource in our field!"
• Talent search
• Ksenia Golubeva: Leading innovation expert at VTB
• "Mistakes at the start of a pilot project are a better solution than failure during scaling"
• Ekaterina Egorova: Leader in innovation
• From startup to corporate innovation
• The role of events in innovation
• Continuous Education and Development
• Differences in Working with Innovations
• Job Openings and Tips for Future Specialists

Working in startups is not only a challenge but also a unique opportunity for professional growth. In this article, we will examine key aspects of scouting, trend watching, and education that are important for innovation managers. You will learn the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in this dynamic field, based on the experience of professionals working at leading Russian companies. These recommendations will help you better navigate the rapidly changing world of startups and effectively develop your career prospects.

• Pavel Belov - on skills and test tasks in innovation management.
• Ksenia Golubeva - on the difficulty of implementing a culture of innovation in corporations.
• Ekaterina Egorova - on the differences between working in a startup and a bank.

Pavel Belov

Saint Petersburg is one of the most beautiful and historically significant cities in Russia. This northern metropolis, founded by Peter the Great in 1703, is famous for its unique architecture, rich cultural traditions, and picturesque canals. St. Petersburg is an important cultural center, home to famous museums such as the Hermitage and the Russian Museum. The city attracts tourists with its magnificent palaces, including the Winter Palace and the Catherine Palace, and numerous theaters, including the famous Mariinsky Theatre. St. Petersburg is also famous for its White Nights, when summer evenings become magical thanks to the long hours of daylight. This city is ideal for those who appreciate art, history, and a unique atmosphere.

The Head of Innovation at MegaFon plays a key role in the development and implementation of new technologies. He is responsible for strategic planning and the implementation of innovative projects that enhance the company's competitiveness in the telecommunications market. His responsibilities include analyzing current trends, managing a team of specialists, and interacting with partners. Effective management of the Innovation Department allows MegaFon not only to improve existing services but also to create new ones that meet customer needs. This approach ensures the company's leadership in digital solutions and communications services.

"People are the most important resource in our industry!"

I have been working at MegaFon for several years. During this time, I have gained valuable experience in the telecommunications field and learned a lot about modern communications technologies. My work at MegaFon allows me to stay abreast of the latest market trends and implement innovative solutions to improve the company's services.

I joined MegaFon over a year and a half ago as an Innovation Manager and currently hold the position of Head of Department.

My previous experience includes work in various fields, where I developed my skills and knowledge. I was involved in projects related to content development and optimization, which allowed me to master the principles of SEO and improve the visibility of websites in search engines. I've also worked with teams at various stages of development, which gave me the opportunity to understand how to effectively collaborate and achieve goals. My experience includes market analysis, creating content marketing strategies, and optimizing user experience. All of these skills help me create high-quality content that attracts attention and meets audience needs.

For ten years, I supported startups, including working at Ingria, one of the first business incubators in Russia. We educated the market on venture investments and supported technology projects using a variety of methods, such as scouting, acceleration programs, and competitions. Our goal was to create a sustainable ecosystem for innovative companies, thereby contributing to the development of venture capital in the country.

For me, innovation is the process of introducing new ideas, technologies, or methods that lead to significant improvements in various areas of life. It's not just creating something new, but also the ability to adapt to change, improve existing processes, and offer unique solutions to current problems. Innovation drives business development, improves quality of life, and stimulates economic growth. It's important for innovation to be not only original but also in demand, allowing it to bring real value to society and individuals.

Innovation is the search for new approaches to performing familiar tasks, including automating processes or creating new products. This can manifest itself in the form of new technologies or business models that challenge existing standards and increase efficiency. Innovation contributes to the improvement of quality of life and the competitiveness of companies, allowing them to adapt to market changes and meet consumer needs.

I enjoy working in this field because it is constantly evolving and offers many opportunities for creativity and self-expression. I appreciate the dynamic nature of this field, which forces me to constantly learn and adapt to new technologies and trends. This allows me not only to expand my professional skills but also to find new solutions to problems. An important aspect is the opportunity to interact with different people and teams, which enriches the experience and contributes to the creation of unique projects.

I constantly expand my knowledge by interacting with a variety of people: colleagues, partners, and startup representatives. The fascinating process of observing how new technologies transform the market inspires me. I also gain experience from successful entrepreneurs and am proud of my contribution to the launch of successful projects.

What difficulties do you face?

In Russia, there is a problem with the perception of new solutions by technical specialists. They often view the implementation of innovations as a challenge, arguing: "We can handle it ourselves." This attitude can significantly delay processes and slow down the implementation of effective technologies. It is important to realize that collaboration and openness to new approaches can significantly speed up work processes and increase the overall productivity of the team.

Our department's workflow is based on effective interaction and a clear distribution of tasks. Each team member has their own area of ​​​​responsibility, which allows us to optimize processes and achieve set goals. We use modern project management tools, which ensure transparency and allow us to track progress. Regular discussions and feedback help us promptly adjust our approaches and improve results. This approach not only facilitates task completion but also develops the professional skills of our employees.

We begin by identifying the internal customer and analyzing their needs. We conduct customer development and simultaneously conduct scouting. Then, we present the pilot project to the innovation committee, which sets the deadlines and budget. After the successful launch of the pilot project, we move on to scaling the solution. This process allows us to effectively adapt innovations to real business needs and optimize resources to achieve better results.

Talent Search

Are you looking for new specialists for your team?

I am always on the lookout for talented specialists. Please mention in your interview that I am open to new resumes. People are our company's most important resource.

An innovation manager plays a key role in the development and implementation of new ideas and technologies within a company. To successfully cope with this task, it is important to possess a number of skills. Firstly, critical thinking allows you to analyze current trends and identify opportunities for innovation. Secondly, communication skills are essential for effective interaction with the team and stakeholders. Furthermore, knowledge of modern technologies and industry trends helps the manager remain competitive. Project management and the ability to work in conditions of uncertainty are also important aspects of an innovation manager's work. It is important not only to generate ideas but also to be able to implement them, so strategic planning and leadership skills play a significant role in the success of innovative initiatives.

The ability to structure information and formulate ideas plays a key role in effective work. A proactive and pragmatic approach allows you not only to identify technologies but also to assess their value to the business. It is important to understand how each technology can contribute to the company's development and improve its competitive position.

When conducting interviews, I focus on several key aspects. First and foremost, these are the candidate's professional skills and how their experience matches the job requirements. It's also important to evaluate how the candidate demonstrates their achievements and solves problems in previous positions.

Personal qualities, such as communication skills, teamwork, and adaptability, are equally important. I pay attention to the candidate's motivation, career goals, and desire to grow within the company. It's also important that the candidate demonstrates an interest in the organization and understands its values ​​and culture.

Finally, I evaluate the candidate's ability to think critically and solve unconventional problems, which is especially important in a rapidly changing work environment. All these factors help me make an informed decision about whether the candidate is a good fit for our team.

I evaluate candidates' relevant experience and their ability to describe their achievements. I especially value examples of successful and unsuccessful business launches, as they demonstrate their level of market understanding. A candidate's ability to analyze and adapt to market conditions is important.

When selecting candidates, we offer a test assignment that evaluates their skills and approach to work. The assignment involves completing a specific task related to our field of activity and allows us to see how applicants approach problem solving. We emphasize creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to work to deadlines. This assignment helps us not only evaluate the candidate's technical skills but also understand their thinking and approach to teamwork.

The trend watcher position requires identifying a growing trend in telecommunications. It is important to conduct an in-depth analysis of this trend, develop a concept for a new product, and propose a potential partner for its implementation. Effective completion of these tasks contributes to the successful introduction of innovations to the market and meeting customer needs.

I have many plans for the future. I strive to develop my skills and knowledge to achieve my professional goals. One of my main areas of focus is delving deeper into my specialty, as well as learning new technologies and methods that will help me remain competitive. Additionally, I plan to expand my professional network and create new valuable connections. Personal development is also important, including self-improvement, reading books, and attending seminars. I'm confident that all these efforts will lead to new opportunities and success in the future.

I'm currently focused on implementing my ideas at MegaFon and aiming to expand our operations across the entire USM group of companies. In the future, I intend to engage in venture capital, which will allow me to implement innovative solutions and support startups.

Ksenia Golubeva: Leading Innovation Expert at VTB

Moscow, the capital of Russia, is an important cultural, economic, and political center of the country. This metropolis is famous for its rich history, diverse architecture, and many attractions. In Moscow, you can find both ancient monuments, such as the Kremlin and Red Square, and modern buildings. The city offers many business opportunities, making it attractive to investors. Moscow is also known for its theaters, museums, and galleries, making the city's cultural life rich and diverse. A well-developed transportation infrastructure, including a metro, makes getting around the city easy. Moscow continues to attract tourists and residents with its dynamic atmosphere and unique blend of tradition and modernity. The VTB Accelerator Scouting and Partnerships Team Leader is responsible for the strategy for finding and attracting new partners, as well as developing existing relationships. This role involves identifying promising startups, analyzing their potential, and facilitating the creation of successful business alliances. This role requires a deep understanding of the market and the ability to quickly adapt to a dynamic business environment. Successful completion of tasks in this role contributes to the growth and scaling of projects, which in turn increases the competitiveness of the VTB Accelerator.

"Mistakes at the start of a pilot project are a better solution than failure during scaling."

The position at the VTB Accelerator is truly exciting. In my role, I develop startups and support entrepreneurs at all stages of their growth. Key responsibilities include analyzing business models, providing strategy and marketing advice, and assisting in finding investment. We create an ecosystem that fosters innovation and the development of new technologies, allowing startups to successfully enter the market and attract the attention of investors.

I scout technology projects, seek optimal business solutions, and establish partnerships with leading innovation organizations such as IIDF and Skolkovo. My goal is to help companies implement advanced technologies and improve their competitiveness in the market.

I began my career at VTB in 2020. Since then, I have gone through various stages and gained significant experience in the financial sector. While at VTB, I mastered many aspects of banking, including lending, investments, and financial analysis. My work at this company allowed me to develop professional skills and deepen my knowledge of financial services, which significantly impacted my career.

I joined the team two and a half years ago. My professional path began as an event manager at the Ingria business incubator. I then continued my career at GoTech Innovation, where I organized the GoTech Arena forum and scouted technologies for various corporations. My experience organizing events and identifying promising technologies allows me to effectively interact with clients and partners, facilitating the development of innovative solutions.

Do you have a degree in innovation?

I graduated with a degree in journalism from St. Petersburg State University. At that time, there was no specialty in innovation management.

The VTB Accelerator is an incubation program aimed at supporting startups and young companies striving for rapid development. The Accelerator's main goal is to provide participants with access to resources, expertise, and funding, enabling them to significantly accelerate the process of bringing their products to market.

Program participants have the opportunity to complete training modules that cover key aspects of business, including marketing, sales, finance, and strategic planning. In addition, startups can count on mentoring support from experts in various fields, which helps avoid common mistakes and optimize business processes.

The VTB Accelerator also provides access to a network of investors and potential partners, which facilitates the further development and scaling of projects. Participation in the program allows startups not only to improve their business models but also to increase their chances of attracting investment for further growth.

Thus, the VTB Accelerator is becoming an important tool for startups that want to quickly adapt to changing market conditions and succeed in a competitive environment.

A collaboration platform for banks and startups allows for the testing of innovative solutions in the financial sector. This platform consists of two teams: the first team is responsible for identifying the latest technologies, and the second for their pilot implementation. If the new solution meets expectations, we transfer it to the scaling stage, which facilitates the further development and implementation of effective technologies in the banking sector.

We recently successfully scaled a project that was initially launched on a limited scale. We began by testing the concept with a small audience, which allowed us to gather valuable data and feedback. Based on this information, we optimized the product and adapted our marketing strategy. As a result, when we expanded our reach to a wider audience, we saw a significant increase in interest and engagement. Scaling allowed us to improve operational processes, increase sales, and strengthen our market position. This experience confirms the importance of thorough preparation and analysis before scaling, which ultimately leads to successful business growth.

The decision to scale is ultimately up to the customer department. Recently, we collaborated with HintEd, a company offering integrated system help services. These services are especially useful for new employees mastering complex document management processes. HintEd's tools help streamline training and onboarding, which contributes to increased team efficiency.

A typical workday includes many tasks and activities that help achieve set goals. My morning begins with planning, prioritizing tasks and organizing my time. Throughout the day, I complete work-related responsibilities, such as meetings with colleagues, discussing ongoing projects, and resolving issues that arise. It's important to dedicate time to analyzing work results and adjusting strategy. The end of the day typically involves summing up and preparing for the next day. Effective time and task management helps maintain productivity and achieve expected results. We begin our workday with a short standup meeting to discuss plans and tasks for the day. Following this, we conduct calls with internal customers to determine their needs. We are also currently conducting a digital checkup to better understand our customers' current needs and expectations. This allows us to effectively adapt our services and improve customer satisfaction. Mistakes in decision making can occur quite frequently. Even experienced professionals can encounter situations where the decisions they make prove ineffective or incorrect. The reasons for such errors can vary: lack of information, emotional influence, time pressure, or an incomplete understanding of the problem. It is important to be able to analyze your mistakes, learn from them, and adapt your decision-making approaches to minimize the likelihood of similar situations in the future. Developing a systematic approach to analyzing and evaluating decisions will help improve their quality and reduce the likelihood of errors.

In large corporations, it is true that a fear of mistakes often arises. However, it is important to understand that mistakes are an integral part of the process. We view them as a valuable opportunity for learning and professional growth. It is important not to avoid mistakes, but to use them as a basis for improvement and development. This approach contributes to a more innovative and effective work environment.

Mistakes during a pilot project with a budget of 500,000 rubles are less critical than spending 500 million on implementing an ineffective solution. Testing at the initial stage allows us to identify potential problems and optimize processes, which ultimately saves money and resources. Effective budget management and careful analysis of pilot project results are critical to the successful implementation of innovations and improving overall business performance.

How do employees rate your work? Implementing innovation can create misunderstandings within a team. It's important to consider employee input and explain changes to minimize resistance and improve adoption. Effective communication and management support will help foster a positive attitude toward change and improve performance.

We organize innovation workshops, and this is a challenging task. With over 80,000 employees, we must constantly transform the team's mindset. When I first started, many perceived startup founders as simply enthusiastic young people without real ideas. Our goal is to change this perception and demonstrate how innovative approaches can lead to significant improvements within our company.

We managed to change colleagues' views on the importance of innovation through systematic work and demonstrations of specific examples of successful cases. I organized presentations and seminars where I shared the results of implementing innovative solutions and their positive impact on performance. It was also important to engage colleagues in the discussion and idea generation process, which contributed to an atmosphere of openness and a willingness to change. Regular meetings and exchanges of opinions helped the team understand that innovation is not just a trend but also a necessity for achieving competitive advantages.

It is important to involve employees in the process from the very beginning. We began actively involving lawyers and security specialists in the development of new solutions, which allowed them to feel responsible for the project and improve the quality of the final solutions. This collaboration facilitates a deeper understanding of requirements and risks, which, in turn, improves work results and minimizes potential problems.

VTB is actively searching for innovation specialists. The company is focused on attracting talented professionals capable of creating and implementing new solutions that meet modern market requirements. Specialists working in this field play a key role in the development of banking technologies and improving the customer experience. VTB offers its employees opportunities for professional growth and participation in interesting projects, making the company attractive to professionals who strive for innovation and new challenges.

We are experiencing high demand for new specialists. Over the past two months, we have successfully hired four new pilots.

We are open to hiring graduates with little experience. We value the fresh ideas and passion for learning that new specialists can bring. Theoretical knowledge and a desire to develop professionally are important criteria for us. We are ready to offer support and training to help graduates adapt and successfully launch their careers.

We welcome new talent! Young professionals bring innovative ideas and possess an open mindset free from bias.

To successfully complete tasks within a team, we need a specialist who meets the specific requirements of the project. It is important to consider not only professional skills but also the candidate's personal qualities. The ideal specialist should have experience in their field, have knowledge of modern technologies, and be ready to learn. Teamwork also requires strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate. Therefore, when selecting a specialist, it's important to evaluate not only their technical competencies but also their ability to integrate into the team and contribute to the overall project.

We are looking for bold and persistent people who are ready to challenge the world around them. It's important to recognize that the gap between expectations and reality can be significant. We invite those who are not afraid to embrace challenges and are committed to change. If you are ready to take action and contribute to society, join us.

At the initial stage of innovation, many people are unprepared for change. Therefore, patience and persistence become key factors for success. Willingness to adapt to new conditions and overcome difficulties is an important aspect that determines success in the process of implementing innovative ideas.

Ekaterina Egorova: Leader in Innovation

Ekaterina Egorova, Project Manager of the Innovation Department at Gazprombank, shares her experience and opinion on the prospects for the development of innovative technologies in banking. She focuses on the importance of digital solutions and their impact on improving customer experience, streamlining business processes, and increasing banks' competitiveness. Ekaterina emphasizes the importance of implementing new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, to create efficient financial services and ensure transaction security. Innovation is becoming a key factor in transforming the traditional banking sector and adapting it to the demands of the modern market.

From a startup to corporate innovation

Ekaterina, did you become a manager at Gazprombank straight away or did you progress through the company?

I was invited to the position of Project Manager in the Innovation Department of Gazprombank. Previously, I worked as a Business Development Manager in a startup, which allowed me to better understand client needs and develop the skills necessary to successfully fulfill this new role. My experience covers the organization of educational events and PR support for projects, which contributes to the effective promotion of ideas and initiatives within the bank.

At Gazprombank, we solve a number of key tasks aimed at ensuring financial stability and client development. Our main areas of work include providing banking services to individuals and legal entities, optimizing financial flows, and supporting investment projects. We are also actively involved in lending, asset management, and the implementation of modern technologies to improve the quality of service. Our goal is To ensure the reliability and accessibility of financial services for all clients, contributing to their economic growth and development.

My main task is to select and implement effective technological solutions, as well as to develop partnerships. We identify the internal customer within the bank and, together with external technology teams, implement projects aimed at improving business processes. In addition, I support the marketing team, helping to represent the bank at specialized events, which helps strengthen its position in the market.

The Role of Events in Innovation

My experience in organizing events significantly contributes to the development of innovation. This activity requires a deep understanding of the needs of participants, which allows me to create unique formats and programs that promote the exchange of ideas. Effective communication and interaction between event participants create a favorable environment for the generation of new ideas and solutions. In addition, experience in organizing events helps identify key trends and technologies that can be implemented in business processes. This not only improves the quality of events but also strengthens the company's market position.

Experience participating in large events, such as conferences, is significant in our industry. It helps build a technology brand and strengthen our market position. At the recent Startup Village, we showcased joint solutions and the bank's products, which enabled us to establish numerous preliminary agreements. This interaction with potential partners and clients not only strengthens the reputation, but also opens up new opportunities for business development.

Continuous education and

Professional development is a key aspect of career advancement. To achieve success, it is important to continually update your knowledge and skills. This can be achieved through various trainings, seminars, and online courses. Reading specialized literature and professional journals also helps you stay up-to-date on new trends and technologies. Furthermore, it is important to actively engage with colleagues and the professional community, exchanging experiences and ideas. Mentoring and seeking feedback can significantly accelerate the development process. Continuous self-education and the desire to improve will help you not only deepen your knowledge but also stand out from competitors in your field.

I constantly monitor new trends and solutions in various companies, attend lectures at Netology and Factorica, and actively participate in meetups. I learn from business practitioners and scholars, such as Joseph Schumpeter, who studies innovation. My experience and knowledge allow me to apply modern approaches in my work, which contributes to the successful implementation of projects and increased competitiveness.

Do you participate in conferences or teach?

I am an invited speaker at RANEPA and Moscow State University, where I share my experience and knowledge in the field of innovation and project management. My lectures cover key aspects of modern approaches and technologies that enable effective project implementation.

Differences in Working with Innovations

Working with innovations in a startup and in a bank has noticeable differences. In a startup, the emphasis is on the rapid development and implementation of new ideas, which implies flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to market changes. Startups often use Agile and Lean methodologies to optimize processes, minimize risks, and quickly receive feedback from users.

In contrast, banks typically operate within strict regulatory norms and standards. Innovation in the banking sector requires longer development and approval cycles, which can slow down the process of implementing new technologies. At the same time, banks have access to a large volume of data and resources, which allows them to develop high-tech solutions, but at a slower speed than startups.

Thus, the main difference is the speed and flexibility of innovation. A startup emphasizes the rapid implementation and testing of ideas, while a bank values ​​stability and regulatory compliance.

In startups, the decision-making process is faster and more flexible. Unlike corporations, where even small initiatives require lengthy approvals, startups can quickly respond to changes and implement new ideas. This creates an opportunity for dynamic development and requires patience and project management experience from the team.

For professionals just starting their careers, I recommend considering working for a startup. Such companies are characterized by high mobility and flexibility, which allows for rapid learning and development. At the same time, working at a bank provides a wider range of opportunities and access to a serious business scale, which can significantly enrich your experience. The choice between a startup and a bank depends on your career goals and preferences.

Vacancies and advice for future specialists

Do you have vacancies in the field of innovation?

We are looking for qualified technical specialists with experience in implementing and supporting products. We are also interested in candidates from large companies who are ready to develop their professional skills and deepen their knowledge in this field.

Advice for future specialists in the field of innovation is the need for continuous learning and adaptation to change. It is important to develop creative thinking and be open to new ideas and technologies. Participation in networking events, conferences, and seminars will help broaden your horizons and establish useful connections. It is also necessary to be able to work in a team and listen to the opinions of others, as collaboration can lead to unique solutions. Don't be afraid to experiment and take risks, as it is through trial and error that the most valuable innovations are born. Seek practical application of your knowledge, not just theoretical study. This will help you become a sought-after specialist in the rapidly changing world of technology and innovation. Patience is essential for new professionals. Early in your career, success may seem unattainable, but the key is to maintain self-confidence and continually gain experience. Every step along the way is an opportunity to learn something new and develop your skills. Remember that difficulties are not obstacles, but steps toward achieving your goals. Perseverance and dedication will definitely lead to success.