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Innovation Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Technology & Innovation Program Manager leads PBK's portfolio of Architecture/Engineering and corporate automation, AI, and innovation platform initiatives. This role is responsible for intake ...

What you'll do Embark on a journey as a Program Manager, where you will become part of a dynamic ... innovation environment - ideally in adhesives, electronics, or specialty chemicals * Solid ...

Innovation Program Manager

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$125K - $152K/yr

ABOUT THE POSITION Reporting to Chief Digital and Innovation Officer, the Innovation Program Manager (Administrative Analyst III) is tasked with leading efforts to improve processes and program ...

The Technology & Innovation Program Manager leads PBK's portfolio of Architecture/Engineering and corporate automation, AI, and innovation platform initiatives. This role is responsible for intake ...

Innovation Program Manager

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$125K - $152K/yr

ABOUT THE POSITION Reporting to Chief Digital and Innovation Officer, the Innovation Program Manager (Administrative Analyst III) is tasked with leading efforts to improve processes and program ...

... Innovation program to the entire IP&S organization. • Anticipate and aggressively remove ... Program Management leadership. • Defines, documents and executes programs of extreme high ...

This role focuses on coordinating research activities, facilitating innovation programs, and ... Manage research processes, timelines, and communication across teams * Monitor project progress and ...

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Innovation Program Manager information

See California salary details

$38K

$106.1K

$154.9K

How much do innovation program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for innovation program manager in California is $106,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $130,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Innovation Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Innovation Program Manager, you need expertise in project management, strategy development, and a background in business or technology, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like PMP. Familiarity with innovation frameworks, agile methodologies, and collaboration tools such as Jira or Trello is typically required. Strong leadership, creative problem-solving, and effective stakeholder communication are critical soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills enable the successful design, execution, and scaling of innovative initiatives, ensuring organizational growth and competitive advantage.

What does an Innovation Program Manager do?

An Innovation Program Manager oversees and coordinates initiatives that drive innovation within an organization. They design, implement, and manage programs that encourage creative thinking, development of new products, and improvement of existing processes. Their responsibilities often include collaborating with cross-functional teams, managing budgets, measuring program outcomes, and fostering a culture of innovation. By identifying emerging trends and technologies, they help organizations stay competitive and adapt to changes in the market.

What is the difference between Innovation Program Manager vs Product Manager?

AspectInnovation Program ManagerProduct Manager
Primary FocusDeveloping and managing innovation initiatives and programsOverseeing product development and lifecycle
Required SkillsInnovation strategy, project management, cross-functional collaborationProduct design, market analysis, user experience
Work EnvironmentCorporate innovation labs, R&D departments, cross-industryTech companies, consumer goods, software firms
CertificationsProject management, innovation management certificationsProduct management certifications (e.g., Pragmatic, Scrum)

While both roles involve strategic planning and cross-functional work, the Innovation Program Manager focuses on fostering new ideas and managing innovation initiatives, whereas the Product Manager concentrates on developing and delivering specific products to market.

How does an Innovation Program Manager typically foster collaboration across different departments?

An Innovation Program Manager often acts as a bridge between various teams—such as R&D, marketing, finance, and operations—to drive new initiatives. They facilitate workshops, organize cross-functional meetings, and implement structured processes for idea generation and evaluation. By maintaining open communication channels and aligning stakeholders on shared goals, they ensure that innovative projects have broad support and clear direction. This collaborative approach is essential to overcome silos and accelerate the implementation of creative solutions.
What are popular job titles related to Innovation Program Manager jobs in California? For Innovation Program Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Innovation Program Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Innovation Program Manager jobs in California are:
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Posted 9 days ago


Job description

At Henkel, you'll be part of an organization that's shaping the future through innovation, sustainability and collaboration. With our trusted brands like Persil, 'all, Loctite, Snuggle, and Schwarzkopf and our cutting-edge technologies, you'll have countless opportunities to explore new paths and grow.  

This position is with our Adhesive Technologies business unit - where we empower our people to transform industries and provide our customers with a competitive advantage through adhesives, sealants and functional coatings.  
Dare to learn new skills, advance in your career and make an impact at Henkel.   

What youll do

Embark on a journey as a Program Manager, where you will become part of a dynamic work environment, collaborating with diverse colleagues to enhance overall efficiency, problem-solving, and creativity within the workplace.

Would you dare to make an impact? This is how:

  • Lead projects end-to-end, managing both strategic and operational levels
  • Set strategic goals for the project and define the program structure and governance framework
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams in R&D, Engineering, Marketing, Operation & Supply Chain, and Regulatory to drive structure, accountability, and momentum across the entire portfolio 
  • Lead and motivate cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and ensuring all team members understand their roles and responsibilities
  • Measure, track, and report on project or program performance, including key milestones
  • Proactively identify risks, bottlenecks, and dependencies, and drive corrective actions with relevant teams 
  • Develop and execute a comprehensive communication plan for project or program updates 
  • Implement quality control measures to ensure that project deliverables meet established standards and fulfill client or organizational needs
  • Conduct thorough post-project evaluations to analyze outcomes, identify areas for improvement, and incorporate lessons learned into future projects