Director of China Innovation Center at Agilent · Shanghai

Director of China Innovation Center Location: China-Remote Location-Shanghai​ Job Description The China Innovation Director is responsible for defining and executing a unified China innovation strategy, serving as the single voice to global stakeholders while accelerating localized innovation. This role integrates workflows, software, automation, and frontier technology scouting to rapidly develop, pilot, and scale solutions – both within China and globally. Positioned at the intersection of customer needs, emerging technology, and global product strategy, this role will drive a high-speed innovation engine that translates local insights into scalable business impact, while helping shape Agilent’s future innovation strategy. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership Design, test, and implement a unified China Innovation operating model integrating workflows, software, automation, and frontier technology scouting Own and coordinate the overall China innovation strategy, ensuring alignment with global priorities Represent China innovation initiatives as the single voice to global teams Team Leadership & Development Lead and scale a multidisciplinary team (~16 members), including software engineers, automation and AI specialists, tech scouts, and customer engagement roles Foster a high-performance, agile culture focused on rapid experimentation and delivery Build capabilities across AI, automation, and software to support innovation goals Customer-Centric Innovation Drive a high-speed learning loop through deep customer engagement to rapidly identify needs and co-develop solutions Enable fast prototyping, iteration, and deployment of localized workflow and digital solutions Partner with commercial and business divisions to accelerate adoption and commercialization Innovation Ecosystem Engagement Actively engage with China’s external innovation ecosystem, including startups, academia, and technology partners Identify and develop strategic partnerships for co-development and technology adoption Collaborate with internal CTO/Frontier teams to scout and evaluate emerging technologies Alignment & Coordination Ensure tight alignment with global functional teams (e.g., R&D, Software & Automation teams) Avoid duplication of solutions and ensure consistent messaging to multinational customers Create strong feedback loops between China market insights and global product development Product & Global Scaling Build a pipeline of technologies, talent, and business models developed in China Identify opportunities to productize and scale innovations globally Partner with global teams to integrate China-driven innovations into broader product roadmaps Reporting & Governance Lead monthly reporting, track KPIs, and drive global alignment meetings Ensure systematic capture and integration of local learnings into corporate strategy Establish governance processes to monitor performance and innovation outcomes Qualifications Qualifications Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Data Analytics, or related field required; MBA or advanced degree preferred. 8–12+ years of experience in innovation, R&D, or technology leadership roles, with demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering customer-centric solutions in complex, global environments. Familiarity with China-specific regulations, including AI governance, data privacy/export controls, and intellectual property Key Competencies Deep understanding of the local China market, customer landscape, and innovation ecosystem, with specific knowledge of the Analytical Instrumentation space Proven ability to lead and align multidisciplinary teams across innovation, R&D, and technology functions Strong track record of driving continuous innovation while maintaining high standards of execution Strong familiarity with workflow solutions, software development, automation, and AI technologies in Analytical Instrumentation space Ability to translate technical capabilities into customer value and scalable business solutions Experience operating within a “try-and-learn” environment with rapid iteration, testing and deployment cycles Comfortable navigating ambiguity, risk, and fast-paced environments Skilled at bridging local commercial needs with global R&D, products, and CTO functions Additional Details This job has a full time weekly schedule. It includes the option to work remotely. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. During the hiring process, a recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for a preferred location. Pay and benefit information by country are available at: https://careers.agilent.com/locations Agilent Technologies Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other protected categories under all applicable laws. Travel Required: 25% of the Time Shift: Day Duration: No End Date Job Function: Administration