Innovation Leader

Trane Technologies

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

Trane Technologies is seeking an Innovation Leader for Industrial Process Heating & Cooling (IPHC) to accelerate growth by building and orchestrating an external innovation ecosystem. This leader will identify, shape, and secure strategic innovation partnerships across universities, startups, venture groups, and technology accelerators to advance sensing, thermal systems, materials, and automation technologies. In close collaboration with business units, the Innovation Leader will uncover new opportunities in vertical IPHC applications, guide portfolio evolution, and translate emerging technologies into differentiated business outcomes.

Requirements

• Demonstrated success in leading technology scouting, open innovation strategy, or external ecosystem development.
• Experience working with academic research partners, startups, accelerators, and venture organizations.
• Broad knowledge of sensing technologies, thermal systems, materials science, and automation technologies relevant to IPHC.
• Experience in product portfolio strategy, business development, or innovation commercialization.
• Background in roles similar to innovation leadership, external R&D strategy, or emerging technology consulting.
• Experience as a Senior Engagement Manager or comparable

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree in engineering, materials, thermal sciences, or related technical discipline; MBA or equivalent preferred.
• Proven ability to influence and communicate across technical and commercial stakeholders.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and opportunity assessment capabilities.
• Ability to operate in dynamic environments and lead complex projects with cross functional teams.‑assessment capabilities.‑functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute an external innovation strategy for IPHC aligned with enterprise and business unit growth priorities.
• Lead global technology scouting for sensing, thermal management, advanced materials, automation, and other IPHC relevant domains.
• Build and maintain a robust ecosystem of partners including universities, research institutions, startups, corporate venture partners, and accelerators.
• Facilitate collaboration between external innovation partners and internal business, engineering, and product teams to accelerate value creation.
• Evaluate and prioritize innovation opportunities based on technical feasibility, market attractiveness, scalability, and alignment with IPHC strategy.
• Provide thought leadership on emerging technologies, competitive dynamics, and strategic implications for Trane Technologies.
• Support business unit portfolio strategy, opportunity assessment, and early stage business development activities.
• Strengthen Trane’s innovation brand within the external ecosystem through active engagement, events, and partnership models.‑unit growth priorities.‑relevant domains.‑unit portfolio strategy, opportunity assessment, and early‑stage business development activities.

Benefits

• Benefits kick in on DAY ONE for you and your family, including health insurance and holistic wellness programs that include generous incentives – WE DARE TO CARE!
• Family building benefits include fertility coverage and adoption/surrogacy assistance.
• 401K match up to 6%, plus an additional 2% core contribution = up to 8% company contribution.
• Paid time off, including in support of volunteer and parental leave needs.
• Educational and training opportunities through company programs along with tuition assistance and student debt support.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level