Technical Director – Senior Architectural Systems (SAS)
Shape the Future of Aluminium Façade Innovation
Are you a visionary technical leader who thrives on innovation, transformation, and steering complex product systems into the future?
SAS is entering an exciting new chapter of growth and market expansion, and we are seeking an exceptional Technical Director to define and deliver the next generation of aluminium systems for the UK construction and façade industry.
With over 34 years at the forefront of architectural aluminium solutions, SAS is a trusted partner to the UK’s leading fabricators, providing high‑performance windows, doors, curtain walling, and full façade packages. Following our integration into ASSA ABLOY in March 2025, our ambition has never been greater. This is a rare opportunity to lead technical strategy in a business with established credibility, global backing, and significant innovation potential.
Role Summary
As Technical Director, you will set the strategic and technical direction for SAS, driving product innovation, system development, and continuous improvement across our aluminium portfolio. You will lead multidisciplinary teams, oversee end‑to‑end product lifecycle delivery, and ensure we continue to meet the highest standards of design integrity, compliance, and market relevance.
Main Responsibilities & Challenges
Strategic & Innovation Leadership
* Develop and deliver a long-term Innovation Strategy, including product generation plans, technology adoption, and digital tooling evolution (BIM/CAD).
* Define technical roadmaps aligned to business goals for both short and long‑term growth.
* Establish a structured R&D capability plan ensuring future‑ready skills, strong succession, and organisational depth.
Product Development & Governance
* Lead the full lifecycle of aluminium system development, from concept to launch.
* Ensure local market product developments are delivered on time, on cost, and aligned to commercial and customer needs.
* Maintain rigorous technical governance across standards, specifications, certification, and regulatory compliance.
* Take accountability for risk assessments, product safety, and legal compliance in design.
Market, Customer & Commercial Impact
* Support key customer and supplier engagements, bringing technical expertise to strengthen commercial outcomes.
* Monitor competitor activity, building regulations, and wider market trends to inform strategic decisions.
Leadership & Culture
* Coach, develop, and inspire R&D and product teams, fostering high performance and cross‑functional collaboration.
* Champion a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
* Work closely with the SAS MD and Commercial VP to deliver a full Innovation Strategy, including relevant roadmaps and generation plans.
Qualifications & Experience
* Degree in Architecture, Façade Engineering, Structural/Civil/Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline (Chartered status desirable).
* 10+ years’ experience in façades, architectural systems, building envelope engineering, or similar technical fields, including leadership of multidisciplinary teams.
* Proven capability in setting technical roadmaps and aligning to commercial objectives.
* Strong competency in resolving complex design/constructability challenges across diverse stakeholders.
* Excellent communication, coaching, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at board level.
Personal Characteristics
* High energy, enthusiasm, and commitment.
* Influential and inspiring leadership presence.
* Ambitious, with a strong desire to drive success.
* Structured, self‑disciplined, proactive, and accountable.
* Strong interpersonal communication skills.
* Willingness to travel, including occasional overseas engagements.
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 63,000 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.
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