Blackfield Associates have been retained on an exclusive search assignment.
Our client, a leading innovator in the vision care industry, is seeking a Senior Director of R&D and Technology. This is an exciting opportunity to lead all global R&D initiatives, overseeing the development of cutting-edge spectacle lenses that aim to significantly reduce the onset of children’s eye disease. As Senior Director, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction for R&D, driving innovation, and leading product development initiatives.
Reporting directly to the CEO, you will manage cross-functional teams, contribute to the growth of the patent portfolio, and collaborate closely with key partners in the vision care space. This role will also involve regular travel across Europe, ensuring strong collaboration with various international teams.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and oversee the new product development and manufacturing of lenses for clinical and commercial use, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.
* Develop and nurture strong relationships with key development partners to leverage resources and achieve R&D and technology objectives.
* Evaluate and scout new technologies, balancing technological innovation with business needs.
* Lead the development and alignment of technology and product roadmaps, ensuring that R&D efforts are closely tied to business priorities.
* Oversee the rapid prototyping and piloting of new technologies, driving innovation while managing project timelines and resources effectively.
* Work closely with the regulatory and quality teams to ensure all design control requirements are met and processes are in place to guarantee product safety and efficacy.
* Manage and mentor a small team of R&D professionals, ensuring that knowledge and expertise are developed and shared effectively within the team.
* Lead patent strategy and manage the intellectual property portfolio to enhance the company’s competitive position.
Experience and Qualifications:
* You must have experience in optics or a related field, with a proven track record of leading R&D and cross-functional teams.
* Expertise in new product development processes, including design for manufacturability and cost reduction.
* Experience in overseeing product lifecycle management and bringing new products to market successfully.
* Advanced degree in a relevant field is essential.
* Experience working internationally, with diverse teams.
The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, with the ability to influence and drive change across multiple teams and departments. As a strategic thinker, you will balance long-term vision with day-to-day operational execution. Additionally, your expertise in leading cross-functional teams, mentoring talent, and managing technology and product roadmaps will be crucial to the role’s success.
This is a high-profile role that will provide the opportunity to shape the future of myopia management technology. If you are a dynamic and innovative leader with a passion for driving advancements in healthcare, this is the perfect opportunity for you.