AVP, Innovation Delivery

AVP, Innovation Delivery
AVP, Innovation Delivery | Innovation Program Leader | Digital Transformation Leader

Location:

Utica, NY with the ability to work via a Hybrid model

Department:

Digital Innovation

Salary:

$111,310.13 to $139,137.66 (actual salary will be based on experience)

Status:

Exempt

Position Summary
AmeriCU Credit Union is seeking a strategic, innovative, and results-driven

Assistant Vice President, Innovation Delivery

to lead the execution of enterprise innovation initiatives and digital transformation efforts.

This role serves as the bridge between strategy and execution—translating organizational priorities into actionable programs, projects, and initiatives that improve member experiences, employee experiences, and operational effectiveness. The AVP will drive cross-functional collaboration, foster a culture of innovation, and ensure the successful delivery of transformative business initiatives across the organization.

What You’ll Do
Innovation Program & Project Leadership

Lead enterprise innovation projects from concept through implementation.

Translate strategic priorities into clear project plans and roadmaps.

Drive collaboration across departments to ensure organizational alignment.

Manage project timelines, milestones, resources, risks, and deliverables.

Apply continuous improvement principles and lessons learned to future initiatives.

Innovation Activation & Employee Engagement

Launch and oversee innovation initiatives that encourage idea generation and collaboration.

Lead programs such as:

Innovation challenges

Tech jams

Hackathons

Employee recognition programs

Develop and manage employee idea submission and feedback processes.

Scale successful pilots and innovation initiatives across the organization.

Strategic Governance & Advisory Support

Provide leadership with project updates, recommendations, and innovation insights.

Support innovation governance and advisory processes.

Ensure innovation priorities remain aligned with organizational objectives and business strategy.

Culture & Change Leadership

Champion a culture of innovation, experimentation, and continuous improvement.

Engage employees at all levels in innovation efforts.

Create an environment where employees feel empowered to share ideas and embrace change.

Support enterprise-wide adoption of new processes, technologies, and ways of working.

Operational Excellence & Performance

Develop project management standards, templates, and operational playbooks.

Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and innovation outcomes.

Measure project effectiveness and return on investment (ROI).

Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, productivity, and organizational effectiveness.

Product & Service Growth

Support the growth and success of assigned member-facing products and services.

Help identify and implement solutions that enhance member experiences and drive organizational growth.

What We’re Looking For
Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

Minimum 5 years of experience in:

Program management

Project management

Innovation delivery

Digital transformation

Organizational change initiatives

Experience leading cross-functional teams and enterprise projects.

Strong verbal, written, and presentation skills.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Teams.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with innovation frameworks and innovation management programs.

Experience implementing employee engagement or idea generation programs.

Knowledge of process improvement methodologies.

Experience supporting enterprise transformation initiatives.

Leadership Competencies
Successful candidates will demonstrate:

Strategic thinking and execution

Cross-functional leadership and influence

Innovation and creativity

Project and program management expertise

Strong communication and stakeholder management skills

Continuous improvement mindset

Business and financial acumen

Who Are We?
AmeriCU is a not‑for‑profit credit union based in Rome, NY with assets in excess of $3.0 billion and serving more than 200,000 members across Central New York, the United States, and beyond. For over 75 years, we have been committed to our members, our employees, and our communities.

In 2026, AmeriCU was once again recognized as one of the Best Companies to Work for in New York State and named by American Banker as one of the best credit unions in the United States to work for.

Benefits
Our benefits include:

Competitive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans

Generous Health Savings Account contributions (with eligible HDHP enrollment)

Paid Holidays

Paid Time Off

Employee Appreciation Events

401(k) matching after 1 year of employment

Employee Assistance Program

Tuition Reimbursement for full‑time employees after 1 year

Life Insurance & Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance (free to full‑time employees)

Enhanced Short‑Term Disability — at no cost to you

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