A Head of R&D, also known as Head of Research and Development, is responsible for the strategic and operational management of a company’s product development. They lead development teams, drive innovation and ensure that new products are successfully positioned in the market.
This role is particularly important in industries such as Automation, electrical engineering, fluid technology , special purpose machinery and plant engineering. In these sectors, innovation and technological development are key competitive advantages.
A Head of R&D is a senior leadership role in engineering and is responsible for the entire research and development function of a company or business unit. They define the innovation strategy, prioritise development projects and ensure successful implementation.
Unlike a development engineer, the focus is no longer on operational development work. Instead, the role centres on strategic management, leadership and the long term direction of all development activities.
The tasks of a Head of R&D are strongly strategic and combine technical expertise with management responsibility. The main objective is to manage innovation effectively and secure long term competitive advantages.
Long term development strategies are especially important in areas such as measurement and control technology or process engineering.
The daily work of a Head of R&D is shaped by strategic decisions, coordination and leadership tasks. Operational development work becomes less central, while management, planning and alignment take priority.
Typical daily activities include:
In many companies, the Head of R&D works closely with the Head of Sales and product management.
A successful Head of R&D combines technical expertise with leadership strength and strategic thinking. The ability to guide innovation in a targeted way is particularly important.
In industrial environments, strong industry knowledge is often a decisive success factor.
The path to becoming a Head of R&D usually involves several years of experience in engineering and often begins with initial leadership roles.
A degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, industrial engineering or a related technical field is usually required.
The salary of a Head of R&D is among the most attractive in the technical field and is significantly higher than that of traditional engineering roles.
Additional benefits are also common:Additional compensation is also common:
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Demand is especially high in technology driven and innovation focused industries.
Typical industries include:
In these sectors, the correct application and integration of technical systems are essential for product success.
The position offers excellent career opportunities, especially for technically oriented leaders.
The role is often an important step towards senior corporate leadership.
Demand is high, but the market is also highly selective. Companies specifically look for experienced leaders with a strong technical background and strategic understanding.
Companies are particularly interested in candidates with:
These positions are often filled through specialised recruitment consultancies and headhunters.
The role is suitable for people who want to combine technology, strategy and leadership. It is ideal for professionals who want to actively shape innovation and take responsibility for the technological future of a company.
Typical characteristics include:
A Head of R&D manages the entire product development function, drives innovation and secures the technological future of a company.
The position offers:
This makes the Head of R&D one of the most important leadership roles in the technical environment.
As a specialised recruitment consultancy and headhunter, we support specialists and executives in finding the right position in a technical environment, from engineers and sales professionals to senior leaders.
We place candidates in attractive career opportunities across industries such as automation, electrical engineering, mechanical and plant engineering, and energy technology. We also provide personal support throughout the entire application process.
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