Head - R & D

Role & responsibilities

The Head of R&D will be responsible for leading the research and development efforts for automotive electronic components, overseeing hardware, software, and mechanical engineering teams. The role will focus on Motor Control Units, VCU, including electric powertrain and embedded electronic components, ensuring innovative design, development, and compliance with industry standards. This role involves significant techno managerial skills and people management responsibilities to drive team performance and development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage R&D activities for automotive electronic components, including hardware, software, and mechanical design.
• Develop and execute R&D strategies aligned with the companys vision and business objectives.
• Oversee the design and development of Microcontroller Units (MCUs), embedded systems, powertrain electronics, and other automotive electronic components.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement in product design, ensuring high performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including business development, Application Engineering, production, quality, testing and validation, and supply chain, to ensure seamless product development.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, automotive regulations, and safety requirements (IATF 16949, ISO 26262, ASPICE, etc.).
• Evaluate emerging technologies and trends, bench marking to integrate cutting-edge solutions into product development.
• Manage and mentor a multidisciplinary team of engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence.
• Develop and manage R&D budgets, ensuring optimal resource allocation and cost control.
• Establish strong relationships with OEMs, suppliers, and technology partners to drive co-development initiatives.
• Lead people management efforts, including hiring, training, performance reviews, and professional development of team members.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performance work environment across multilocational teams, encouraging teamwork, creativity, and accountability.

Key Requirements:

• Bachelors degree in Electronics Engineering (B.E Electronics) or a related field.
• 15+ years of experience in R&D roles within the automotive electronics domain.
• Strong expertise in automotive embedded systems, MCU-based designs, and powertrain electronics.
• Hands-on experience in hardware and software development in end to end product development lifecycle
• Software development experience in Motor Control Unit (MCU), Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) and other Electric Vehicle (EV) products.
• Good knowledge of communication protocols (CAN, LIN, I2C, SPI, UART) and diagnostic protocols (UDS, KWP).
• Knowledge of mechanical design, thermal design and simulations , integration of electronic components in vehicle architecture.
• Familiarity with functional safety standards (ISO 26262) and regulatory requirements, EMI/EMC, and CE certifications.
• Proven track record of leading and managing cross-functional teams in product development.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, content driven and thought leadership skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience in team handling and people management, including leadership development and team engagement.

Experience working with global teams, suppliers and partners in a dynamic and challenging environment