At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead R&D strategy and innovation for advanced laser technologies.
- Company: Join Novanta, a global leader in precision technology solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with significant influence on global technology advancements.
- Why this job: Shape the future of technology that transforms healthcare and manufacturing.
- Qualifications: Extensive R&D leadership experience and strong technical credibility required.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 150000 £ per year.
Build a career powered by innovations that matter! At Novanta, our innovations power technology products that are transforming healthcare and advanced manufacturing—improving productivity, enhancing people’s lives and redefining what’s possible. We create for our global customers engineered components and sub-systems that deliver extreme precision and performance for a range of mission-critical applications—from minimally invasive surgery to robotics to 3D metal printing.
Shape the Future of Advanced Laser Technology. At Novanta, our technologies help power some of the world's most advanced applications, from life-changing medical innovations and robotics to semiconductor manufacturing and industrial automation. We are seeking an exceptional R&D Leader to shape the future of our Laser Technologies business. This is more than an engineering leadership role. You will lead the strategy, capability development and execution of a globally respected R&D organisation responsible for creating technologies that solve complex customer challenges worldwide.
The Opportunity: As a key member of the leadership team, you will lead approximately 50 engineers and scientists while defining the future technology roadmap for a business generating more than $120M in revenue.
You will oversee:
- Research and innovation strategy
- Technology roadmaps
- New product development
- Sustaining engineering
- Portfolio prioritisation
- Engineering leadership development
- Product lifecycle governance
You will partner closely with Product Management, Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, Service and Commercial teams to ensure technology investments translate into measurable customer and business value.
What you will do:
- Lead Innovation: Define and execute the technology and R&D strategy that shapes future product platforms and market opportunities.
- Drive Operational Excellence: Strengthen stage-gate development processes while improving predictability, quality, speed and commercial outcomes.
- Develop Leaders: Build organisational capability through coaching, succession planning and leadership development.
- Influence Business Strategy: Connect technical investments with growth objectives, customer value and long-term market opportunities.
What we are looking for:
- Extensive experience developing complex technology products
- Senior leadership experience within R&D or Engineering
- Proven portfolio and organisational leadership capability
- Technology roadmap ownership
- Stage-gate product development expertise
- Commercial and financial acumen
- Experience leading multifunctional engineering teams
- Ability to influence executive-level decision making
- Strong technical credibility in complex technical environments
Highly Relevant Industry Backgrounds: Photonics, Lasers, Semiconductor equipment, Medical technology, Advanced manufacturing, Scientific instrumentation, Complex electromechanical systems.
Why Novanta?
- Strategic executive-level influence
- Global technology leadership
- Significant R&D investment responsibility
- Leading-edge innovation
- Strong growth trajectory
- Opportunity to shape future technology platforms
We are committed to providing an inclusive recruitment process. If you require reasonable adjustments at any stage, for example with applications, interviews, or assessments, please inform the Talent Acquisition Partner. We will work with you to understand your needs and make appropriate arrangements so you can perform at your best.
Novanta is proud to be an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action workplace. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, military and veteran status, disability, genetics, or any other category protected by federal law or Novanta policy.
Solving complex challenges, delivering innovations that matter! Novanta is a leading global supplier of core technology solutions that give medical, life science, and advanced industrial original equipment manufacturers a competitive advantage. We combine deep proprietary expertise and competencies in precision medicine, precision manufacturing, robotics and automation, and advanced surgery with a proven ability to solve complex technical challenges.
Senior Director Research & Development in Stockport employer: Novanta Inc.
At Novanta Inc., we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and professional growth. Our employees benefit from comprehensive training programs, competitive compensation, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare and advanced manufacturing sectors. Located in a vibrant area, our team enjoys a dynamic environment that encourages creativity and teamwork, making it an ideal place for those looking to advance their careers while contributing to transformative projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Director Research & Development in Stockport
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Senior Director Research & Development role you’re after at Novanta Inc..
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Novanta Inc. a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Novanta Inc..
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Senior Director Research & Development at Novanta Inc., apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Director Research & Development in Stockport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Senior Director Research & Development, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Novanta Inc. a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Novanta Inc. specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Novanta Inc.
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Novanta Inc., make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Novanta Inc. want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
