Technology Innovation Director, GDT Location: 100ve Level: 3x Introduction: Unilever’s Strategy for an AI-Ready Future Unilever is on a bold journey to become a future-fit, AI-enabled organisation. Our ambition is to embed artificial intelligence and advanced technologies at the heart of our business, driving radical simplification, sustainable growth, and competitive advantage. Through strategic initiatives like Agentic AI, robust partnerships, and a culture of continuous learning, Unilever is transforming how we innovate, operate, and deliver value to consumers and society. The Technology Innovation Lead plays a pivotal role in realising this vision, ensuring that our technology innovation agenda is aligned with Unilever’s AI strategy and delivers measurable impact across the enterprise. Role Purpose The Technology Innovation Director is responsible for enabling, inspiring, and accelerating Unilever’s technology innovation agenda, with a strong focus on AI and digital transformation. This role ensures that innovation processes are structured, aligned, and actionable, fostering a culture of experimentation and upskilling while leveraging both internal and external partnerships. Key Responsibilities 1. Enable: Structured & Aligned Innovation Drive efficient and effective technology innovation processes, fully aligned with Unilever’s AI strategy and principles. Lead the definition and evolution of Unilever’s Agentic AI Strategy, frameworks, and governance (including guardrails and architecture). Oversee the implementation of innovation taxonomies, demand management approaches, and strategic business partnerships. Govern and launch partnerships with leading academic institutions (e.g., UCL, Imperial College of London). 2. Inspire: Upskill & Embed Knowledge Foster a culture of innovation by inspiring and upskilling teams across Unilever, with a focus on AI and strategic technology trends. Lead and expand engagement initiatives such as “For Your Innovation” channels, innovation sessions, and thought leadership events. Drive research and experimentation in emerging areas (e.g., Agentic AI, digital twins, immersive experiences, future of work). Reverse Mentor and support leadership teams on Technology Innovation 3. Accelerate: Action & Impact Accelerate the pace of AI transformation by leveraging internal and external partnerships Ensure product domains have access to resources and upskilling required to innovate and prototype with Agentic AI. Collaborate with product teams to shape and execute their innovation strategies, supporting trials and pilots of new technologies. Skills & Experience 15 years + of experience Deep expertise in emerging technologies (AI, cloud, data platforms). Proven leadership in complex, cross-functional innovation projects. Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills. Experience building scalable business cases and delivering measurable outcomes. Demonstrated experience managing ambiguity, making things happen, and spotting opportunities Demonstrated success with creating a new technology strategy or process This role is central to Unilever’s ambition to lead in the age of AI, ensuring that technology innovation is not just an aspiration but a core driver of business transformation and sustainable growth We are one of the world’s largest consumer goods companies with amazing brands, dynamic people and a sustainable vision. We meet everyday needs for nutrition, hygiene and personal care with brands that help people feel good, look good and get more out of life. If you are ambitious, keen to learn and want lo lead, you have come to the right place. Explore our website and apply to be part of a company with more than 400 brands used by over two billion people everyday.