Terna, the Italian national transmission grid (NTG) operator, is actively engaged in the process of ecological transition and—as director of the electricity system and enabler of the Twin Transition (energy transition and digital innovation)—has the task of developing a grid capable of managing the ever-increasing integration of renewables and enabling the progressive decarbonisation of the system, while constantly balancing energy produced and consumed. 

Do you want to play a key role in the energy transition and help create the energy system of the future?

Terna is seeking candidates for the role of Innovation Expert at its Rome office. The successful candidate will be responsible for the following activities:

• Managing and developing Terna’s San Francisco Innovation Zone in Silicon Valley
• Defining the annual operational plan of activities; designing, coordinating and implementing said activities
• Mapping the Silicon Valley innovation ecosystem, identifying its players, characteristics and strengths, with a particular focus on the energy & cleantech sector and emerging technologies
• Developing and fostering dialogue with networks of local and international contacts, building relationships of trust with startups, VC and CVC funds, universities, corporations and institutions in the Bay Area
• Developing and managing partnerships with local players in the private sector, the scientific community and US institutional entities, in coordination with the other relevant corporate departments
• Promoting and facilitating technology scouting activities and the search for innovative startups/scaleups at international level, in line with the needs expressed by Terna’s business lines or with the corporate strategy
• Designing, coordinating and implementing innovation initiatives and programmes in the United States, aimed at supporting Terna’s activities and creating connections with the local ecosystem.
• Promoting exchanges and shared influences between ecosystems, creating opportunities for collaboration between innovative players and startups from Silicon Valley and those from Italy and Europe, enhancing Terna’s role as a transatlantic bridge.
• Promoting solutions and partnerships of major interest within the company, accelerating the adoption of new technologies and processes, and helping to transform the mindset and spread a culture of open innovation.
• Acting as a point of contact for all innovation activities in San Francisco, as well as liaising with the relevant corporate structures
• Representing Terna in the local ecosystem by taking part in initiatives, events and functions in the sector in the United States, contributing to the visibility and positioning of the company at international level

Professional requirements and experience

• A degree in a technical, scientific or economic subject. Alternatively, a different university degree, if accompanied by relevant experience in the field of innovation (educational or professional)
• Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English
• At least 2 years of experience working in roles related to innovation
• Background in startups, corporate innovation or open innovation (venture clienting, corporate venture capital, incubators/accelerators or similar roles).
• Knowledge of the energy and cleantech sector, including the main challenges of the energy transition and technological trends.

Technical and interpersonal skills

• Ecosystem mapping & scouting: ability to analyse trends, map relevant players (startups, VC funds, universities, corporations), while assessing characteristics and opportunities for collaboration.
• Networking & relationship-building: ability to build relationships of trust with institutional, academic and entrepreneurial stakeholders in Silicon Valley.
• Project management: autonomous management of initiatives, events and collaborations, with the ability to coordinate local and internal company partners.
• Business knowledge: understanding of market logics and of Terna’s regulated model, in order to be able to translate external opportunities into value for the company.

Soft skills

• Cultural adaptability: openness and flexibility to operate in a dynamic and competitive environment such as that of California.
• Communication skills: fluent English (spoken and written)
• Skill in effectively presenting to stakeholders, including at high level (investors, startups, institutions).
• Proactiveness and initiative: ability to identify emerging opportunities even if not directly asked by the business lines.

• Terna contact point: ability to be the primary interface between Terna and local innovation players, facilitating the creation of partnerships and opportunities
• Willingness to travel abroad (USA) for medium-long periods

Based in
Rome

We offer a workplace where people can effectively collaborate, take an active role and participate in the construction of an innovative work environment aimed at well-being throughout the organisation. We are committed to valuing the unique nature of each individual in an inclusive working community, and to considering applications with the required qualifications, offering equal employment opportunities. We provide an on-boarding programme, training sessions through the Terna Academy, and development processes for personal improvement to all our personnel.  

The deadline for applications is no later than xx/xx/xxxx. Applications can be submitted by clicking “Apply now”. Recruitment contact: Simona Sapio - talentacquisition@terna.it

Please note that CVs sent by email will not be considered. Candidates who are deemed to fit the profile will be contacted in the coming weeks. We would like to thank all other applicants for their interest in our Group and we confirm that their applications will be considered in the event of other future openings.