Head of Innovation

yStop is transforming how cities across Perth engage with their communities through innovative, technology-driven solutions. We bring together deep OOH sector expertise and cutting-edge digital platforms to help governments and organisations connect in more meaningful, measurable, and impactful ways.

This is a rare opportunity to join at a senior leadership level, where your vision and ideas will directly shape the future of civic engagement in Australia and beyond. You'll be helping to drive initiatives that don't just respond to change, but lead it — influencing how communities and governments interact for years to come.

We are seeking an exceptional Head of Innovation to lead our next wave of growth and technological advancement, with a strategic focus on both local and national markets. This role goes far beyond project management — it's about sharing the direction of our entire product ecosystem, cultivating and maintaining relationships with key beneficiaries, and ensuring yStop stays at the forefront of industry change.

In close partnership with our Product Manager, you will be the driving force behind the launch of new products. You will be involved in some truly unique emerging solutions that are scalable, sustainable, and grounded in measurable real-world impact. Your leadership will be instrumental in guiding cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of creativity and accountability that includes AI-powered tools and smart civic solutions that transform how governments connect with their communities.

You will combine market insight and an eye for opportunity to spot emerging trends and convert them into actionable innovation strategies. By doing so, you will help position yStop as the go-to leader in civic engagement technology, while championing ideas that enhance both efficiency and inclusivity in public service delivery.

We're entering an exciting phase in a dynamic tech moment — a time of rapid change, bold ideas, and new possibilities. The skill set to meet this moment includes these responsibilities:

Innovation Strategy & Delivery – Promote a forward-looking product strategy that cements yStop's position as a leader in government digital engagement solutions.

Technology Integration – Identify, assess, and integrate AI-driven services, IoT solutions, and other emerging technologies for existing and new clients.

Market Expansion – Forge strong, trusted relationships with a range of clients from commercial to government to grow our market presence.

Product Lifecycle Leadership – share the journey from concept to market delivery, ensuring all initiatives are user-focused, commercially viable, problem solvers.

Team Leadership & Development – Build and mentor a high-performance innovation culture capable of delivering at scale.

Cross-Functional Collaboration – Lead marketing, sales, and operational teams to ensure market penetration strategies are aligned with innovation priorities.

Industry Awareness – Stay ahead of civic technology, AI, and government transformation trends, positioning yStop as a thought leader in the space.

Resource & Budget Management – Allocate innovation budgets effectively, balancing risk with opportunity to maximise ROI.

Energy, creativity, and the communication skills to effectively promote fresh concepts

5+ years of senior leadership in product innovation or marketing/sales.

Proven track record in the Western Australian media industry with a strong grasp of local market dynamics.

Understanding of media buying in WA, including agency relationships, pricing models, and market trends.

Willingness to learn and launch technology products for the government sector.

Strong experience or curiosity around AI implementation and emerging tech adoption.

Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable roadmaps.

Exceptional communication, influence, and stakeholder management skills at executive level.

Experience navigating government procurement processes and compliance frameworks.

Familiarity with civic engagement platforms, community consultation tools, or public sector digital services.

Understanding of government asset requirements.

Experience scaling technology across multiple government jurisdictions.

Success in commercialising products and services.

Bachelor's degree in Technology, Business, or related discipline; MBA or equivalent postgrad qualification highly regarded.

Established relationships with local councils, state, or federal government stakeholders

Competitive salary package with performance-based incentives.

Direct influence on shaping the national conversation around government-community engagement.

Flexible work arrangements with a Perth-based innovation hub.

Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth.

Camaraderie in a great team environment

Equity participation as we expand nationally.

This is more than a leadership role – it's a chance to redefine civic technology in Australia. If you're passionate about harnessing innovation to improve public service delivery, eager to market and promote new ideas, and ready to lead transformative projects, we want to hear from you.

To Apply

Submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your abilities and how your WA media/local government industry experience positions you for success.

yStop is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

Salary match Number of applicants Skills match

Your application will include the following questions:Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia? How many years' experience do you have as a Head of Innovation? How much notice are you required to give your current employer? Do you have a current Australian driver's licence? Do you own or have regular access to a car? Are you willing to relocate for this role?

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