Director, R&D — Paper Machines & Digital Innovation

Valmet; Jyväskylä; On-site; EUR 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Valmet is seeking a Director, R&D to lead the Board and Paper Machines technology portfolio, guiding pilot centers and driving digital development. You will shape long‑term technology strategy, collaborate with customers and partners, and lead a global team to deliver competitive, sustainable solutions.

You will bring a strong engineering background, proven leadership, and expertise in data analytics or AI to align R&D with business goals and industry needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering or a related field.
• Solid knowledge of the pulp and paper industry is preferred.
• Proven leadership experience and strategic decision‑making.
• Strong project management and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with data analytics, digital solutions, IT systems, AI technologies, or technology architecture.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Board and Paper Machines R&D portfolio, ensuring alignment with business strategy and customer needs.
• Drive Digital Transformation and Operations Development initiatives to enhance performance and innovation.
• Lead line‑level technology development and support advancement of board and paper machine solutions.
• Collaborate with customers, research organizations, universities, and development partners to drive innovation.
• Represent Valmet in customer meetings, Technology Days, and industry forums to present technology initiatives.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (Service, Sales, Procurement, Production) to ensure alignment and execution of strategic initiatives.
• Support business and technology decisions through understanding of processes, performance, and financial drivers.
• Serve as a member of the Technology Unit Leadership Team and contribute to strategy execution.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Stakeholder management

Communication

Data analytics

AI technologies

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Engineering

Job description

Valmet is seeking a Director, R&D to lead the Board and Paper Machines technology portfolio, guiding pilot centers and driving digital development. You will shape long‑term technology strategy, collaborate with customers and partners, and lead a global team to deliver competitive, sustainable solutions.

You will bring a strong engineering background, proven leadership, and expertise in data analytics or AI to align R&D with business goals and industry needs.