The core of managerial competences in managing innovation projects

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to systematise the concept of innovation based on a literature review and present the importance of the human element, such as key managerial competences, in the process of managing innovation projects, according to IPMA Individual Competence Baseline v. 4.0. Design/methodology/approach: The objectives are achieved through a systematic literature review of the innovation and competence concept. Moreover, the paper provides an analysis of competence as stated in IPMA Individual Competence Baseline v. 4.0 in terms of its usefulness for providing organisations with innovative solutions. Findings: Due to the of complexity of the innovation process, this paper discusses and develops the appropriate skills and competences which are required to improve or develop new and untapped solutions. The solutions might result in implementing and bringing innovation to the market. Originality/value: The complexity of the economic environment requires not only team cooperation and flexibility, but also an innovative approach to each and every process in an organisation. The paper attempts to comprehends the human element of the innovation project, which might be helpful for managers who lead innovation projects and for innovative organisations as a whole.