Innovation Project Lead – R&I, Cross-Disciplinary

AFA Dispensing Group; Eindhoven; Hybrid; EUR 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company laptop

Mobile phone

Performance-based bonus

Vacation 30 days

Job summary

AFA Dispensing Group is seeking a seasoned Project Manager for its Research & Innovation (R&I) team in Eindhoven. You will lead cross-disciplinary projects, translate research insights into market-ready dispensing solutions, and report to the R&I Director within a global organization.

You will work with engineers, researchers and designers to ensure alignment, manage scope and budgets, and support IP management while driving structured progress across the portfolio.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Innovation Management, or a related field.
• At least 10 years of experience in an international, multidisciplinary environment.
• Proven track record in managing creative product development or technology innovation projects.
• Strong communicator who enjoys collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
• Hands-on, curious, and proactive with structured project delivery.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken).
• Interest in packaging, dispensing, and product innovation.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to AFA, suppliers or clients’ location.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate innovation and product development projects from concept to pilot phase.
• Implement tools and methods to bring new capabilities within R&I’s scope.
• Guide the team translating research outcomes and market insights into actionable products.
• Collaborate with engineers, researchers, designers and clients for cross-functional alignment.
• Manage scope, timelines, budgets and deliverables aligned with strategic goals.
• Ensure seamless handover of validated products to Operations and Business Development.
• Support IP management on tasks and documentation related to projects as IP gatekeeper.
• Drive reporting and progress tracking within the R&I portfolio.
• Present project results and recommendations to senior stakeholders and leadership.

Skills

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Innovation management

English proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Innovation Management, or related field

Job description

AFA Dispensing Group is seeking a seasoned Project Manager for its Research & Innovation (R&I) team in Eindhoven. You will lead cross-disciplinary projects, translate research insights into market-ready dispensing solutions, and report to the R&I Director within a global organization.

You will work with engineers, researchers and designers to ensure alignment, manage scope and budgets, and support IP management while driving structured progress across the portfolio.