Caudwell Marine is an innovative start-up engineering company, financially backed by John Caudwell, entrepreneur, business leader and philanthropist. We are developing a revolutionary patented outboard motor and Vessel Control System for launch in 2025. As a growing and dynamic team, we are passionate about bringing this cutting-edge technology to market. At Caudwell Marine, every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of our product. With a collaborative and hands-on approach, we foster an environment of mutual support, where each person’s expertise drives the success of our ambitious plan. Reporting to the Technical Operations Director, the Head of Research and Development is responsible for leading all product testing and development activities, ensuring robust validation across the full product lifecycle. This role defines the test strategy, drives technical innovation, and oversees the development of capabilities, equipment, and teams to support reliable, compliant, and high-performing products. It requires strong cross-functional leadership and regular presence across both the Coventry head office and the Lowestoft test facility. Key Responsibilities Define and own the test & validation strategy, ensuring alignment with product requirements, customer expectations, and regulatory compliance. Lead the development and deployment of test methods, equipment, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems for both prototype and production-level validation. Oversee system-level and component-level testing (e.g., durability, performance, environmental, reliability, and safety) across R&D and production readiness stages. Ensure rigorous traceability and documentation of test protocols, procedures, results, and deviations in accordance with industry standards and internal governance. Drive early-stage product development input through robust DVP&R planning, risk-based validation approaches (e.g., DFMEA), and design-for-testability principles. Champion the use of advanced test technologies, including automation Lead cross-functional collaboration with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Product Support to close the loop between design, testing, and in-field performance. Build and lead a high-performing test & development team, including recruitment, training, and performance management of engineers, technicians and test support team. Own the test facility roadmap, including the development, expansion, and upgrade of labs, rigs, and infrastructure to support current and future testing needs. Represent the Test & Development function in business planning, technical reviews, compliance audits, and customer engagements. Support product certification and regulatory submissions through timely, accurate test data and technical justifications. Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering (Master’s preferred). 15 years of experience in product development and validation, with at least 5 years in senior technical or functional leadership roles. Proven track record in testing complex mechanical, electromechanical, or mechatronic systems (e.g., powertrain, driveline, hydraulics, embedded systems). Deep knowledge of DVP&R, validation planning, and test-based risk mitigation strategies. Extensive experience with instrumentation, data acquisition, and control systems. Strong background in performance validation and environmental testing (thermal, vibration, corrosion). Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulatory frameworks. Demonstrated experience managing test facilities and safety protocols. Solid understanding of product development processes and how testing integrates within them. Personal Attributes Credible technical authority with deep expertise in product validation and a pragmatic, data-driven mindset. Highly analytical with strong attention to detail and a structured approach to problem-solving. Strong leadership presence; able to motivate and inspire multidisciplinary teams and technical specialists. Excellent communicator with the ability to engage stakeholders across engineering and operations. Decisive and action-oriented; comfortable navigating ambiguity and driving resolution under pressure. Passionate about continuous improvement, process discipline, and operational excellence. High integrity and commitment to product safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Key Information Location: Coventry Head office Salary: Negotiable - depending on background and experience Disclaimer: Caudwell Marine operates a Preferred Supplier List (PSL) for recruitment agencies, which is currently not under review. Agencies not on our PSL are kindly requested to refrain from submitting speculative CVs or contacting our hiring managers or employees directly regarding recruitment matters. Please note that any CVs submitted by non-PSL agencies, whether speculative or otherwise, will be treated as unsolicited.