Head - R&D

Role Summary:
The Head of Research and Development (R&D) is instrumental in leading R&D initiatives, fostering innovation, and ensuring the delivery of cutting-edge products aligned with customer needs. This role encompasses project leadership, strategic planning, and cultivating an innovation-driven culture within the R&D team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Product Development and Innovation

• Analyze customer requirements and spearhead the development of new products or enhancements to existing ones.
• Lead projects focused on the redesign and modernization of existing products, ensuring alignment with stakeholder demands.
• Collaborate with key functions (Product Management, Operations, Sales) to deliver market offerings that foster significant business growth while meeting cost and quality standards.
• Cultivate an innovation culture within the team, encouraging the delivery of technology roadmaps and solutions.
• Continuously review and update short- and long-term technology strategies to support business profitability and growth.

• Cost Management and Planning

• Understand all costs associated with product development.
• Participate in the development of the annual budget, operating plan, and strategic plan.

• Documentation and Technical Specifications

• Create comprehensive product documentation, including specifications and installation manuals.
• Prepare detailed technical specifications and calculations.

• Root Cause Analysis and Testing

• Conduct root cause analysis for field/customer issues.
• Develop tests for all required certifications and declarations.

Key Competences:

1. 3D Modeling: Proficiency in 3D modeling software, particularly SolidWorks. This skill is essential for creating detailed product designs and visualizing concepts.

2. Project Management: Experience and expertise in project management to effectively plan, execute, and monitor R&D projects. This includes managing timelines, resources, and deliverables.

3. Production Technologies: A strong technical understanding of various production technologies, including machining, painting, welding, and product assembly. This knowledge is vital for ensuring that product designs are feasible and align with manufacturing capabilities.

4. Technical Documentation: Ability to create comprehensive product documentation, including specifications and installation manuals. Clear and detailed documentation is crucial for effective communication within the team and across departments.

5. Root Cause Analysis: Proficiency in root cause analysis to identify and address issues that may arise during the development process or in the field. This skill is essential for continuous improvement and product quality assurance.

6. Testing and Certification: Experience in developing tests for certifications and declarations. Knowledge of the testing requirements for products in the relevant industry is crucial for compliance and regulatory purposes.

7. Leadership and Interpersonal Skills: Ability to generate new ideas, effective communication, strong problem-solving, and teamwork.

8. Business acumen: Ability to comprehend the company's needs and align R&D efforts accordingly.

Qualifications and Experience Levels:

• Technical background (preferably Master's degree) in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in Research and Development preferably in Material Handling Equipment/ Dock Equipment.
• Proficiency in 3D modeling (SolidWorks) and project management.
• Demonstrated leadership and strategic planning skills.
• Proven ability to drive innovation and product development in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and especially PowerPoint.

We are the ASSA ABLOY Group
Our people have made us the global leader in access solutions. In return, we open doors for them wherever they go. With nearly 52,000 colleagues in more than 70 different countries, we help billions of people experience a more open world. Our innovations make all sorts of spaces – physical and virtual – safer, more secure, and easier to access.

As an employer, we value results – not titles, or backgrounds. We empower our people to build their career around their aspirations and our ambitions – supporting them with regular feedback, training, and development opportunities. Our colleagues think broadly about where they can make the most impact, and we encourage them to grow their role locally, regionally, or even internationally.

As we welcome new people on board, it’s important to us to have diverse, inclusive teams, and we value different perspectives and experiences.