R&D Director – Advanced Precision Engineering & Instrumentation
Are you an accomplished R&D leader with a passion for driving innovation in high-precision engineering and scientific instrumentation?
I am supporting a globally recognised manufacturer of advanced metrology and measurement systems in their search for an R&D Director to lead the development of their next generation of precision technologies. Their systems are relied upon worldwide across high-value sectors including aerospace, semiconductors, optics, automotive, energy, medical devices and cutting-edge industrial R&D.
This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of R&D strategy, guide multi-disciplinary engineering teams and shape complex instrumentation used in some of the world’s most demanding applications.
The Role
As R&D Director, you will:
* Define and execute the complete R&D strategy and technology roadmap for a portfolio of high-performance precision systems
* Lead, mentor and develop cross-functional engineering teams spanning software, hardware, electronics, optics, mechanics, metrology and systems engineering
* Drive new product introduction from concept to launch, ensuring quality, innovation and commercial competitiveness
* Oversee research activity, feasibility studies, prototyping and early-stage technology development
* Establish and embed engineering best practices, system-level design principles and scientific rigour
* Ensure strong collaboration across Product Management, Operations, Quality, Applications and Commercial teams
* Build long-term engineering capability through succession planning, skills development and recruitment
* Manage budgets, resource allocation and external partners
* Represent R&D at senior leadership level and contribute to overall business strategy
Candidate Profile
We are keen to speak with individuals who have:
* A degree (or postgraduate qualification) in Engineering, Physics, Mechatronics, Optics or another highly technical discipline
* Proven senior leadership experience within R&D for precision engineering, metrology, scientific instrumentation, automation or advanced manufacturing
* Strong technical breadth across mechanical, electronic, software and/or optical engineering
* A track record of delivering complex hardware, instrumentation or measurement products into commercial use
* Experience setting R&D strategy, managing multi-disciplinary teams and controlling large project portfolios
* Deep understanding of product development processes, risk management, verification & validation and design governance
* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence at executive level
* Experience with measurement systems, motion control, sensors or ultra-precision engineering (advantageous)
What’s on Offer
This organisation offers a senior, high-impact leadership position within an established, innovation-focused engineering environment, including:
* A collaborative, supportive and technically driven culture
* Competitive executive salary and performance-based incentives
* Flexible working options and enhanced holiday allowance
* Pension scheme, private healthcare and family-friendly policies
* Investment in professional development, leadership coaching and specialist training
* Clear progression opportunities within a global group
* The opportunity to shape world-leading precision technologies used across multiple high-value industries
Interested?
If you are a strategic, forward-thinking R&D leader who thrives in complex engineering environments and wants to drive the next generation of precision technologies, I would be delighted to speak with you.