Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership:
Define and execute the company’s long-term vision and strategy, with a specific focus on leading-edge R&D initiatives. Drive the company towards achieving technological breakthroughs that align with commercial success. - R&D Leadership:
Foster a culture of innovation and oversee the company's R&D efforts, ensuring that new technologies and products are developed according to both industry trends and market needs. Lead cross-functional R&D teams to ensure alignment with business objectives. - Innovation and Product Development:
Work closely with the CTO, R&D leadership, and technical teams to prioritize high-impact research projects. Drive innovation to bring novel products, services, or technologies to market in a timely manner. - Collaboration with Technical Teams:
Maintain strong engagement with engineering, research, and product development teams, providing strategic guidance and ensuring that technical decisions align with the company’s broader goals. - Business Development:
Identify and evaluate opportunities for business growth, including partnerships, acquisitions, and entering new markets. Ensure that R&D outcomes are leveraged to create new revenue streams and maintain a competitive edge. - Financial Oversight and Resource Allocation:
Manage the company’s financial performance, including budgeting, fundraising, and resource allocation. Ensure that R&D investments are optimized to maximize innovation while maintaining financial discipline. - Building Strategic Partnerships:
Build relationships with academic institutions, research centers, and technology partners to foster collaboration and stay at the forefront of technological advancements. Seek strategic alliances that enhance the company’s R&D capabilities. - Board Communication and Reporting:
Act as the primary liaison between the board of directors and the company, providing updates on key developments, financial performance, and strategic initiatives. Ensure that the board is informed on critical R&D milestones. - Talent Development:
Attract, retain, and mentor top technical talent. Develop a strong, cohesive leadership team that shares the company’s passion for innovation and research excellence. - Risk Management:
Identify and mitigate risks associated with technology development and commercialization. Ensure compliance with industry regulations and intellectual property protection.
Qualifications:
- Proven experience (15+ years) in a senior leadership role within a technology or R&D-focused company, with a track record of driving technological innovation.
- Strong technical background, preferably with hands-on experience in research, engineering, or product development.
- Advanced degree in a related technical field (e.g., PhD or Master's in Engineering in Laser application, Computer Science, Physics, etc.).
- Demonstrated ability to lead and scale R&D efforts in a high-growth environment.
- Strong business acumen, with experience managing P&L, fundraising, and stakeholder relationships.
- Ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable business strategies.
- Experience in fostering innovation and building a culture that supports high-impact research.
