Head of Product and Innovation

at; City of Brisbane; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading modular construction firm is seeking a visionary Head of Product and Innovation to lead their design and innovation strategy. The role involves developing comprehensive strategies, driving R&D, and overseeing product development to meet market demand. The ideal candidate should have a degree in a relevant technical field and proven senior leadership experience in product development. This position is critical in enhancing products through innovation and meeting the evolving needs of customers in the sector.

Qualifications

• Proven senior leadership experience in product development, design, or innovation roles.
• Deep understanding of building codes, regulations, and construction methodologies.
• Strong background in design and engineering with manufacturing knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive design and innovation strategies.
• Drive research, development, and innovation through R&D projects.
• Oversee new product development to meet market demand.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Leadership

Innovation

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Stakeholder management

Education

Degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management

Job description

Fleetwood Australia is a leading innovator in the modular construction and manufacturing sector, delivering cutting-edge building solutions across key critical markets. We're at the forefront of modern methods of construction (MMC), combining advanced manufacturing techniques with sustainable design principles to meet the evolving needs of our customers.

Our commitment to innovation extends beyond traditional construction methods, embracing automation, robotics, and progressive manufacturing processes. We work closely with universities, research bodies, and industry partners to continuously advance our product offerings and establish ourselves as a recognised innovation leader in the Australian building industry.

At Fleetwood, we foster a culture of collaboration, creativity, and technical excellence, where diverse teams come together to solve complex challenges and deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients across residential, commercial, and government sectors.

About the Role

We're seeking a visionary Head of Product and Innovation to lead our design and innovation strategy during an exciting period of growth and transformation. This newly restructured role is pivotal in driving product innovation that enhances both what we build and how we build it.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement comprehensive design and innovation strategies aligned with business objectives;
• Drive research, development and innovation through progressive R&D projects targeting current and future revenue streams;
• Oversee new product development to meet market demand and support revenue growth targets;
• Champion modern methods of construction (MMC) and manufacturing automation initiatives;
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with external research partners, universities, and industry experts;
• Lead cross-functional collaboration with Design & Estimating teams, manufacturing, and regional stakeholders; and
• Establish Fleetwood as a recognised innovation leader to enhance brand credibility and talent attraction.

About You

We're looking for a strategic leader who combines technical expertise with commercial acumen and a passion for innovation in the built environment.

Essential Requirements:

• Degree qualification in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or relevant technical discipline;
• Proven senior leadership experience in product development, design, or innovation roles;
• Commercial acumen with ability to align innovation with business objectives;
• Deep understanding of building codes, regulations, and construction methodologies;
• Strong background in design and engineering with manufacturing knowledge (robotics / automation advantageous);
• Experience in structural design, modular construction, or modern methods of construction (MMC);
• Demonstrated success in value engineering and product enhancement initiatives; and
• Strong project management and matrix organisation leadership capabilities.

Highly Regarded:

• Background in modular / prefabricated construction;
• Experience with DfMA (Design for Manufacture and Assembly);
• Previous collaboration with research institutions and universities; and
• Understanding of automation and robotics in manufacturing environments.

Key Competencies:

• Results-driven leadership with strong collaborative mindset;
• Strategic thinking and innovation leadership;
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities;
• Excellent stakeholder management and relationship building;
• Adaptability and change management; and
• Technical expertise combined with business understanding.

At u&u Recruitment Partners, we value diversity, equity and inclusion. We welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and people with disability. Should you require reasonable adjustments or have a preferred method of communication throughout the recruitment process, we encourage you to make a request via [e-mail] or phone the above-mentioned u&u consultant to discuss.