Global head of r&d | automated chemistry

Our Opening and Your Responsibilities
Drive the next generation of laboratory innovationIn this critical leadership role, you will define and execute the global R&D strategy for the Automated Chemistry business unit, leading the development of innovative hardware and software solutions that empower scientists and engineers worldwide.
As a member of the Auto Chem Functional Management Committee (FMC), you will shape the future technology roadmap, foster a culture of innovation, and ensure the successful delivery of new products that create sustainable customer value and business growth. Leading a highly skilled global R&D organization across multiple disciplines and locations, you will combine strategic leadership with strong technical engagement to keep Auto Chem at the forefront of laboratory automation and process innovation.
In this role, your responsibilities will include:Own the global R&D strategy and technology roadmap, aligning innovation priorities, technology investments, and organizational capabilities with Auto Chem's long-term business objectives.
Lead a global R&D organization spanning hardware development, software development, systems engineering, systems testing, and project management across multiple locations.
Drive the development of innovative hardware and software solutions that strengthen Auto Chem's market position and enable sustainable business growth.
Champion a culture of innovation and engineering excellence while continuously evaluating emerging technologies, industry trends, and future technology platforms to unlock long-term customer and business value.
Ensure effective execution of global product development programs, balancing robust product lifecycle management processes with the agility required to accelerate innovation and time-to-market.
Partner closely with Strategic Product Groups to ensure alignment of R&D roadmaps, investment priorities, and business objectives.
Act as a visible 'working leader,' providing both strategic direction and technical guidance while supporting teams in solving complex engineering and technology challenges.
Build and lead a high-performing global R&D organization by defining its vision, operating model, priorities, and ways of working while continuously strengthening technical, leadership, and organizational capabilities.
Own the global R&D budget, and project roadmap, ensuring effective resource allocation, investment decisions and organizational alignment to maximize innovation impact and business valueServe as a key member of the Auto Chem Functional Management Committee (FMC), fostering strong partnerships across Product Management, Quality, Operations, Commercial organizations, Digital Business Services, and external technology partners to drive business success.
What You Need to Succeed
The following requirements are necessary for this role:Master's degree or equivalent qualification in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Engineering, Computer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. A Ph D is an advantage.10+ years of progressive leadership experience in R&D, Engineering, Product Development, or related technical disciplines.
Proven experience leading global multidisciplinary development organizations across hardware, software, automation, systems engineering, and related technology domains.
Demonstrated success in developing and commercializing complex technology products within industrial automation, semiconductor, advanced manufacturing, analytical instrumentation, laboratory automation, process technology, or comparable technology-driven environments.
Strong technical leadership capabilities with the ability to engage deeply in engineering and technology discussions while providing strategic direction to highly experienced subject matter experts.
Demonstrated success leading technical experts, engineering managers, and multidisciplinary teams across multiple locations, functions, and technology platforms.
Proven experience defining and executing technology strategies, innovation roadmaps, and organizational transformation initiatives in a global environment.
Strong understanding of integrated product ecosystems combining hardware, software, automation, digital solutions, and service offerings.
Demonstrated success partnering with and influencing senior leadership, driving alignment and execution across complex global matrix organizations.
Strong business acumen with experience managing significant R&D investments, budgets, and portfolio prioritization decisions. Experience with ownership of a substantial functional budget is highly desirable.
A balance of strategic thinking and hands‑on execution, with the ability to translate technology opportunities into measurable business outcomes.
Native‑level or business fluent English, written and spoken; additional languages are considered an asset.
Willingness and ability to travel internationally up to 25-30%.
Our Offer to YouWhere applicable flexible wor