Each year, Business Talent Group releases the High-End Independent Talent Report, looking across industries and business functions to analyze how business leaders deploy top independent talent to fill critical skill, expertise, and leadership gaps. Here are the key innovation and R&D trends for 2024.

Key priorities for innovation and R&D leaders include accelerating digital transformations to leverage emerging technologies, fostering a culture of experimentation and collaboration, and delivering value-driven solutions that meet the needs of customers and stakeholders. Skills such as AI and machine learning are in high demand to accelerate innovation cycles, while project management is integral to the effective execution of strategic initiatives.

PROJECT CATEGORIES: Innovation and R&D

74% Strategy

16% Operations

6% Transformation

6% Organization

IN-DEMAND PROJECTS FOR INNOVATION AND R&D

Innovation and R&D

Digital Strategy

Planning

Business Processes

Business Intelligence and Analytics

IN-DEMAND SKILLS FOR INNOVATION AND R&D

AI and Machine Learning

Project Management

Corporate and Business Unit Strategy 

Clinical Operations

Change Management

SAMPLE INNOVATION AND R&D PROJECTS

• As an AI expert, test a new product concept and develop a pilot program
• Serve as a project manager to facilitate the acceleration of R&D program execution
• Review clinical trial protocols, synopses, and proposals for funding
• Concept and develop a digital application to be used throughout a patient journey