Head of R&D & Innovation

TQR Consultancy Ltd; Devon and Torbay; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy firm in engineering is seeking an aspiring Engineer to drive R&D in aerospace and automotive sectors. This pivotal role involves shaping innovation strategies, engaging with clients, and leading engineering teams through complex projects. The ideal candidate will have a Master's or Ph.D. and 8–12 years of relevant experience. Join a dynamic team to push technological boundaries and grow with the company.

Benefits

Shape the future of engineering

Opportunity for personal and professional growth

Collaborative culture in an agile environment

Flexible rewards tailored to individual success

Qualifications

• 8–12 years in engineering/R&D, with demonstrable leadership in innovation-focused environments.
• Experience in client-facing roles and strategic planning highly valued.
• Visionary thinker with a passion for innovation.

Responsibilities

• Champion the development of cutting-edge technologies.
• Shape and execute the R&D strategy aligned with company goals.
• Represent the technical voice in client meetings and strategic partnerships.
• Mentor and empower a multidisciplinary team of engineers.
• Stay ahead of emerging trends and technologies.
• Lead multiple concurrent R&D projects, ensuring delivery excellence.

Skills

Strong technical foundation in aerospace or automotive systems

Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills

Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and complex projects

Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to problem-solving

Education

Master’s or Ph.D. in Aerospace, Automotive, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline

Job description

Overview

We are at the forefront of innovation in the aerospace and automotive sectors. Our mission is to push the boundaries of technology and create groundbreaking solutions. As we expand our vision, we are seeking a forward-thinking Engineer with exceptional engineering intellect, a strategic mindset, and a passion for innovation. This is a unique opportunity for a rising leader who is ready to step into a high-impact role and drive our development initiatives to new heights.

Role Overview

This role is designed for an aspiring technical leader who thrives at the intersection of engineering excellence, strategic innovation, and client engagement. You’ll be instrumental in driving our R&D agenda, influencing internal strategy, and leading breakthrough projects that push technological boundaries. You won’t just manage teams—you’ll inspire them, challenge norms, and collaborate directly with clients and stakeholders to bring bold ideas to life.

Responsibilities

• Innovation Leadership: Champion the development of cutting-edge technologies across aerospace and automotive domains. Lead concept-to-prototype initiatives and guide the transition to scalable solutions.
• Strategic Influence: Shape and execute the R&D strategy in alignment with company goals. Contribute to internal innovation roadmaps and cross-functional planning.
• Client Engagement: Represent the technical voice in client meetings, industry forums, and strategic partnerships. Translate complex engineering concepts into compelling value propositions.
• Team Development: Mentor and empower a multidisciplinary team of engineers and researchers. Foster a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Technology Scouting: Stay ahead of emerging trends and technologies. Identify opportunities for disruptive innovation and strategic investment.
• Project Oversight: Lead multiple concurrent R&D projects, ensuring delivery excellence, budget alignment, and risk mitigation.

Qualifications

• Education: Master’s or Ph.D. in Aerospace, Automotive, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience: 8–12 years in engineering/R&D, with demonstrable leadership in innovation-focused environments. Experience in client-facing roles and strategic planning is highly valued.
• Skills: Strong technical foundation in aerospace or automotive systems; Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills; Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and complex projects; Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
• Attributes: Visionary thinker with a passion for innovation. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Why Join Us?

• Shape the Future: Be at the forefront of transformative engineering and innovation.
• Grow with Us: This is a newly created role with room to evolve; we’re committed to tailoring the opportunity to the right person.
• Collaborative Culture: Work alongside brilliant minds in a supportive, agile environment.
• Flexible Rewards: We believe in making it work for the right candidate—let’s talk about what success looks like for you.

If you feel you can demonstrate the required skills and experience for the above vacancy and are currently looking for a new challenge, then please submit an up-to-date CV by clicking the apply button.