Director of R & D

About This Role

This leadership role involves defining the R&D strategy for Mechanical and Surgical Access in Neuromodulation, leading a global team in product development, and collaborating across senior leadership to expand patient access to life-transforming therapies.

Responsibilities

• Own the R&D strategy for Mechanical and Surgical Access, defining a strategic vision for next-generation systems based on patient and clinician needs, technology advancements, and business opportunities
• Drive global functional excellence in R&D, including sustaining and new product development, while establishing technical best practices
• Oversee the design, development, and integration of complex Class III implantable and non-implantable medical devices
• Partner with Marketing to identify and assess new product opportunities and markets aligned to divisional strategy
• Plan, budget, and execute product development programs in accordance with SOPs, international standards, and regulatory requirements
• Identify and secure intellectual property that is critical to the long-term success of the business
• Lead R&D contributions in the due diligence process for potential acquisitions
• Inspire and develop a high-performing global team (15+ employees), fostering engagement, accountability, and talent retention
• Champion organizational change, innovation, and continuous improvement
• Communicate effectively across all organizational levels, delivering clear updates on scientific progress, development status, and strategic messaging
• Build strong cross-functional relationships across BSC and with external partners, including physicians, KOLs, and industry experts
• Stay ahead of industry trends to anticipate market shifts and inform business strategy
• Collaboratively shape short- and long-term strategy for the Neuromodulation division

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a related technical discipline
• Minimum of 10 years' experience in medical device research and development
• Minimum of 10 years' experience leading cross-functional teams and complex project portfolios within matrixed organizations
• Proven success managing and developing teams of 15 or more professionals across technical functions
• Demonstrated expertise in end-to-end medical device product development, from concept through manufacturing transfer and market launch
• Strong strategic mindset and business acumen, with a track record of commercializing products in regulated industries
• Deep understanding of surgical access and mechanical design for implantable devices
• Ability to travel up to 20% of the time

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a related technical discipline
• Minimum of 10 years' experience in medical device research and development; Minimum of 10 years' experience leading cross-functional teams and complex project portfolios within matrixed organizations

Nice to Have

• Experience working with Class III implantable devices
• Background in spine, pain management, robotic surgery, or neurosurgery
• Demonstrated success leading global R&D teams and cross-functional collaboration
• Skilled communicator comfortable engaging senior leadership and external stakeholders
• Self-starter with the ability to think strategically and drive organizational impact

Benefits