R&D Manager

NAXCON GmbH, located in the heart of Freiburg, is at the forefront of the German IT and engineering industry.

Our experts have extensive knowledge in software and hardware development, state-of-the-art electronics, and future-oriented technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality.

We are not only dedicated to project work for our customers, but also intensively pursue in-house innovation projects as well as research & development. Renowned companies from a wide range of German industries place their trust in us - demonstrating the outstanding expertise and commitment of our engineers.

Position: R&D Manager

Location: Stuttgart, Germany

Field: Automotive

Type: Full-time/on-site

Role Summary: As the R&D Manager, you will play a pivotal role in shaping our companys
future by overseeing research and development activities. Youll collaborate with crossfunctional teams, manage technical experts, and contribute to strategic decision-making. Your
leadership will directly impact our product portfolio, market positioning, and overall growth.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Team Leadership:

• Manage and mentor a team of skilled researchers, engineers, and scientists.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Set clear goals, provide regular feedback, and ensure professional development.

2. Strategic Planning:

• Work closely with senior management to define R&D objectives aligned with business goals.
• Develop and execute a long-term R&D strategy.
• Identify emerging trends, technologies, and market opportunities.

3. Project Management:

• Lead R&D projects from concept to commercialization.
• Allocate resources effectively and prioritize projects based on strategic importance.
• Monitor project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
• Analysis and evaluation of the project results according to the requirements of internal and external customers
• Participate and contribute to defining technology roadmaps, product strategy and project planning

4. Technical Excellence:

• Stay abreast of industry advancements and scientific breakthroughs.
• Encourage innovation within the team.
• Ensure rigorous scientific methodologies and quality standards.
• Technically lead in advance technologies and R&D activities in multiple domains
• Advise and make recommendations regarding specialist topics and other new technologies as identified
• Implementation of projects to bring innovative solutions with higher technical maturity
• Reporting and presentation of the work results according to the technology maturity processes and participation in external events

5. Collaboration:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (product management, marketing, manufacturing, etc.) to integrate R&D efforts of Germany and India.
•  Develop relationships and coordination with customers, supplier partners, research and institutional collaborators and regulatory organizations as required in conjunction with the organization goals.

6. Business Development:

• Identify new business opportunities based on R&D outcomes.
• Evaluate potential partnerships, acquisitions, or licensing agreements.
  
• Contribute to market entry strategies and product roadmaps.
• Evaluation, Benchmarking and selection of new technologies & components in area of expertise

7. Intellectual Property (IP) Management:

• Establish Patent/IP where possible and in accordance with the agreed strategic directions to increase asset value of the organization
• Protect and leverage company IP through patents, copyrights, and trade secrets.
• Work closely with legal and IP teams.

8. Budget and Resource Allocation:

• Develop and manage the R&D budget.
• o Optimize resource allocation to maximize impact.

Requirements:

• Masters degree in computer science, Electrical engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in the Automotive Industry including 5+ years in the leadership roles.
• Proven track record of leading and managing engineering team.
• Strong business acumen and strategic thinking.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in English and German (additional languages a plus).
• Experience with technologies related to photonics, sensing and optical systems (desired)
• Understanding of sensor configuration and image signal processing (ISP)
• Knowledge of development methods in Agile project structure
• Experience with programming, scripting languages and modelling tools such as C/C++,
• Python, MATLAB, Simulink are beneficial
• Experience of ISO 9001 and ASPICE Standards and Processes

What we offer:

Join a cosmopolitan and internationally mixed team: We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and cultures to contribute their unique perspectives and talents to our team.
Polish your German language skills: If you are looking to improve your German language skills, we offer a supportive environment where you can practice and develop your language abilities: whether you are a beginner or an advanced speaker.
Benefit from a fixed contact person from the company: We understand the importance of having a reliable point of contact within the company. That's why we assign a dedicated contact person who will provide guidance and support throughout your employment with us.
Professional growth and development: With us, our engineers can immerse themselves in new industries or projects after just 1-2 years and actively transfer knowledge.
Enjoy regular team events with the company: We believe in the power of team building and fostering positive relationships within the workplace. That's why we organize regular team events to promote collaboration and strengthen our team bonds.
Competitive compensation package: At NAXCON, we believe that our engineers are our greatest asset. That's why we offer a comprehensive and competitive compensation package that includes a salary commensurate with experience and expertise.