Director, Research & Development

Wisemen Multimedia; Timmins; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in Ontario is seeking a Director of Research and Development to oversee innovative research initiatives and government contract proposals. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in R&D, strong technical writing skills, and a proven track record in securing funding. Responsibilities include leading a team, managing budgets, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive technological innovation in amateur sports complex projects.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of progressive experience in R&D, including 3 years in leadership.
• Proven success in writing and securing government contracts.

Responsibilities

• Lead proposal writing for government contracts.
• Support design and integration of smart infrastructure.
• Recruit and mentor a multidisciplinary R&D team.

Skills

Research

Technical Writing

Team Building

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Master’s or Ph.D.

Job description

Position Summary:

The Director of Research and Development (R&D) is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing the design, development, and execution of innovative research initiatives across two primary areas: (1) identifying, writing, and securing government contracts through both solicited and unsolicited proposals, and (2) supporting the development and innovation of technology projects connected to amateur sports complex construction, including associated facilities and technologies. The ideal candidate will possess strong research, technical writing, and team-building capabilities, along with an entrepreneurial mindset to drive growth and excellence in both streams.

Key Responsibilities:

Government Contract Research and Proposal Development:

• Lead the strategy and execution of proposal writing for government contracts (federal, state, and local).
• Monitor, identify, and assess RFI/RFP opportunities in alignment with the company’s capabilities and priorities.
• Oversee the creation of competitive proposals, white papers, capability statements, and unsolicited proposals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (legal, finance, operations) to ensure proposal compliance and compelling content.
• Build and lead a team of grant/proposal writers and subject matter experts.
• Maintain relationships with key government agencies and contracting officers.

Technology Innovation in Amateur Sports Complex Projects:

• Support the design and integration of smart infrastructure, green construction features, and innovative technologies in amateur sports complexes.
• Conduct feasibility studies and market research on technology solutions that enhance user experience and operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and external vendors to ensure the technology vision aligns with construction goals.
• Lead pilot projects and testing of new technologies for scalable deployment.
• Create technical reports and business cases for innovation in recreational facilities.

Team Leadership and Strategy:

• Recruit, train, and mentor a multidisciplinary R&D team focused on writing, analysis, and technical innovation.
• Develop short- and long-term R&D plans that align with company goals and market trends.
• Manage R&D budgets, timelines, and deliverables.
• Present research outcomes, progress reports, and strategic recommendations to executive leadership.
• Promote a culture of curiosity, collaboration, innovation, and accountability within the department.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Public Policy, or related field; Master’s or Ph.D. preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in research and development, including at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven success in writing and securing government contracts and funding.
• Demonstrated experience in supporting or leading technology efforts in construction or infrastructure projects.
• Strong knowledge of federal acquisition regulations, grants, and contracting processes.
• Exceptional technical writing, research, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to build and manage high-performing, cross-functional teams.

Preferred:

• Familiarity with green building standards, smart facility design, or amateur sports facility operations.
• PMP or related project management certification.
• Experience with government portals such as SAM.gov, Grants.gov, or similar platforms.

Work Conditions:

• Office-based with flexibility for remote collaboration.
• Travel required up to 25% to attend site visits, conferences, and stakeholder meetings.

Salary: $120,000 - $130,000 annually