RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT (R&D) DIRECTOR

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced and strategic R&D Director to lead the Company's research and development initiatives. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving innovation, overseeing the product development lifecycle, managing cross-functional technical teams, and translating business objectives into scalable technology solutions.

This role requires a strong combination of technical leadership, product innovation, project management, and commercial awareness to support the Company's long-term growth and competitive positioning.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the Company's R&D strategy in alignment with business objectives.
• Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of research and product development projects from concept to commercialization.
• Manage and mentor multidisciplinary R&D teams, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Identify emerging technologies, market trends, and industry best practices to drive product innovation and technical advancement.
• Oversee product design, prototyping, testing, validation, and continuous product enhancement.
• Collaborate closely with Product, Engineering, Operations, Sales, and Business Development teams to ensure successful product delivery.
• Establish project timelines, budgets, resource allocation, and performance milestones for R&D initiatives.
• Evaluate technical feasibility, project risks, and commercial viability of new development opportunities.
• Drive process improvements to enhance development efficiency, product quality, and regulatory compliance where applicable.
• Protect and manage intellectual property, including patents, proprietary technologies, and technical documentation.
• Build and maintain relationships with external research institutions, technology partners, and industry stakeholders where appropriate.
• Prepare technical reports, project updates, and strategic recommendations for senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Materials Science, Product Development, or a related technical discipline. A Master's degree or PhD will be an advantage.
• At least 8 years of relevant experience in research and development, with a minimum of 3 years in a leadership or management role.
• Demonstrated experience leading end-to-end product development and innovation projects.
• Strong knowledge of product development methodologies, project management principles, and technology commercialization.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple concurrent projects.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication abilities with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience managing R&D budgets, resources, and project timelines.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and innovation-driven environment.