Head Research and Development

Purpose of the Job

To lead the organizations R&D function in developing innovative ferrous alloys, enhancing metallurgical processes, improving product quality, and driving technological advancement. The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing all R&D activities, managing innovation pipelines, and ensuring intellectual property protection through patents and research publications.

Role & responsibilities

• Formulate and execute R&D strategy aligned with organizational goals and market needs.
• Lead development of new ferrous alloy grades, casting methods, and metallurgical processes.
• Oversee pilot projects, material testing, and process validation for scalability and cost efficiency.
• Collaborate with production, quality, and marketing teams to translate R&D outcomes into commercial products.
• Identify opportunities for innovation and ensure timely filing of patents and intellectual property.
• Liaise with external research bodies, universities, and industry consortiums to stay abreast of emerging technologies.
• Drive patent filings, manage intellectual property (IP) portfolio, and ensure protection of company innovations.
• Guide and mentor a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers.
• Prepare technical reports, research publications, and project documentation.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards related to R&D activities.

Preferred candidate profile

Educational Qualification:

Experience:

Proven track record of product and process innovation in alloy development or metallurgical advancements.

Experience in leading research teams and managing multi-disciplinary projects.

Technical Competencies

• Deep understanding of ferrous metallurgy, phase transformations, and alloy design.
• Expertise in casting technologies, heat treatment, and failure analysis.
• Proficiency in materials characterization techniques (SEM, XRD, DSC, etc.).
• Familiarity with computational materials science and simulation tools (ThermoCalc, JMatPro, etc.).
• Strong understanding of intellectual property (IP) and experience with at least 3 patents or significant exposure to patent filing.

Behavioral Competencies

• Strategic and analytical thinking
• Leadership and people development skills
• Strong problem-solving and innovation mindset
• Excellent communication and technical writing skills
• Collaboration and cross-functional alignment