VP, Innovation and Technology

VP, Innovation and Technology
Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid)
Reports to: CEO
Range: 180K - 210K
About Us
Adage Technologies is a digital engineering and services firm headquartered in Chicago, IL, with an additional major office in Medellín, Colombia. We specialize in software development, eCommerce, and web solutions for clients in the performing arts, associations/accreditation organizations, and manufacturing/distribution sectors. With 110+ employees across two countries, we are entering an exciting phase of growth as an AI-enabled digital consultancy.
We are seeking a strategic and visionary VP, Innovation and Technology to lead Adage's technology strategy, architectural direction, and innovation agenda. This role sets technical standards, drives the evolution of AI-enabled offerings, and elevates delivery quality through architectural leadership and enablement.
The VP, Innovation and Technology will not manage day-to-day delivery execution. Instead, this role focuses on technology strategy, architecture, R&D leadership, and product and IP development, working through Solution Architects and Developer Managers to position Adage for its next phase of growth and market leadership in digital and AI solutions.
Key Responsibilities

• Technology Strategy & Roadmap
  • Define and execute Adage's technology vision, including AI enablement and emerging tech adoption.
  • Align technology investments with business objectives and client needs.
• Thought Leadership
  • Serve as Adage's technical voice in the market through speaking engagements, client briefings, and industry participation.
  • Attract and retain like-minded talent through thought leadership initiatives.
  • Inspire and excite customers with visionary ideas and possibilities.
  • Partner with Sales efforts and engage with clients to shape technology-driven solutions.
• Innovation & R&D Leadership
  • Drive research and development of new digital and AI offerings.
  • Validate and launch innovative solutions that create measurable client impact.
• Product & IP Management
  • Take ownership of Adage's existing products and intellectual property portfolio.
  • Lead the dedicated product team to enhance, maintain, and evolve these offerings.
  • Ensure product strategy aligns with client needs and overall technology roadmap.
• Delivery Excellence Enablement
  • Establish best practices for architecture, security, and development across global teams.
  • Partner with delivery leadership to improve velocity and quality through standards and tooling.
  • Ensure consistency and scalability in technology choices.

Success Metrics (First 12-18 Months)

• Enable 10 paid AI engagements (75% pilots, 25% production-ready).
• Achieve on-time delivery ≥ 90% and defect density ≤ 2% across projects.
• Deliver 3 validated AI offerings ready for market.
• Establish a clear roadmap for Adage's product/IP portfolio and deliver measurable enhancements.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as VP of Technology, CTO, or equivalent in a digital services/software consultancy.
• Deep expertise in software engineering, architecture, data, and emerging technologies (including AI/ML).
• Strong understanding of enterprise platforms (CMS, eCommerce, ERP) and integration patterns.
• Track record of driving innovation and building scalable technology strategies.
• Experience managing product teams and intellectual property portfolios.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills; ability to influence at all levels.

Preferred

• Familiarity with association management systems (AMS), accreditation workflows, and manufacturing/distribution platforms.
• Experience leading technology transformation initiatives in mid-sized to large organizations.

Why Join Us?
At Adage Technologies, you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of a growing digital consultancy as we continue evolving our AI-enabled solutions. We're not just building solutions-we're helping organizations in associations, accreditation, and manufacturing transform how they operate and deliver value.
What makes Adage unique:

• Impact at Scale: Your work will influence technology strategy across 110+ talented professionals in the U.S. and Colombia.
• Innovation Mandate: You'll lead the charge in defining and delivering next-generation AI offerings that solve real business problems.
• Product Ownership: Take stewardship of our existing product portfolio and intellectual property, driving enhancements and new capabilities.
• Collaborative Culture: We value transparency, creativity, and continuous learning. You'll work alongside a leadership team committed to growth and innovation.
• Flexibility & Balance: Hybrid work model with flexibility for remote collaboration and periodic travel to our Chicago HQ and Medellín office.

Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary, performance-based bonus, and comprehensive benefits package.