Senior Technology Director (R&D)

Company Description

We are seeking an exceptional technology leader to support NIQ's Architecture & Innovation teams, leading our India technology organization across architecture, innovation, and advanced research. This role will be paramount in shaping NIQ's technology strategy, driving next-generation solutions, and representing the company externally with clients, partners, investors, and the broader tech ecosystem.

This leader will bridge deep technical vision with business strategy - leading broad, multidisciplinary teams working on Generative AI, NLP, Computer Vision, and other emerging technology domains, while fostering a culture of innovation, intellectual property creation, and thought leadership.

Strategic Leadership

• Define and lead the enterprise architecture and innovation strategy across multiple international business units in EMEA and APAC.
• Partner with global and regional leadership to align technology vision with business objectives.
• Serve as a key technology executive for India, representing the organization in executive discussions.

Innovation & Research

• Oversee advanced R&D initiatives in AI/ML, Generative AI, NLP, Computer Vision, and related technologies.
• Drive a structured innovation program that identifies, incubates, and scales transformative ideas.
• Spearhead patent filings, academic collaborations, and participation in global research forums.

Architecture Excellence

• Govern enterprise architecture standards, modernization initiatives, and technology roadmaps.
• Mentor and develop high-performing architects across domains - applications, data, infrastructure, and AI.
• Ensure architectural integrity, scalability, and sustainability across products and platforms.

External & Thought Leadership

• Represent the company at conferences, industry panels, and client events as a recognized technology leader.
• Engage with analysts, investors, and media to articulate NIQ's innovation story and technology differentiation.
• Build strategic partnerships with technology providers, startups, and academia.

M&A and Strategic Advisory

• Provide architectural due diligence and innovation insights for M&A and investment activities.
• Partner with corporate strategy and business units to evaluate emerging opportunities and trends.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in technology, with significant leadership experience across architecture, innovation, or R&D.
• Proven track record of leading large, cross-functional technology teams across geographies.
• Strong background in AI, ML, or data-driven innovation, with exposure to cloud-native and modern software architectures.
• Exceptional executive communication skills - able to engage credibly with C-level leaders, clients, and external stakeholders.
• Recognized thought leader - who has led teams with publications, patents filing , or speaking experience at major international conferences
• Strategic, visionary, and hands-on leader who thrives in ambiguity and drives clarity through influence

Additional Information

Our Benefits

• Flexible working environment
• Volunteer time off
• LinkedIn Learning
• Employee-Assistance-Program (EAP)

About NIQ

NIQ is the world's leading consumer intelligence company, delivering the most complete understanding of consumer buying behavior and revealing new pathways to growth. In 2023, NIQ combined with GfK, bringing together the two industry leaders with unparalleled global reach. With a holistic retail read and the most comprehensive consumer insights-delivered with advanced analytics through state-of-the-art platforms-NIQ delivers the Full View. NIQ is an Advent International portfolio company with operations in 100+ markets, covering more than 90% of the world's population.

For more information, visit NIQ.com

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Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At NIQ, we are steadfast in our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace that mirrors the rich diversity of the communities and markets we serve. We believe that embracing a wide range of perspectives drives innovation and excellence. All employment decisions at NIQ are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. We invite individuals who share our dedication to inclusivity and equity to join us in making a meaningful impact. To learn more about our ongoing efforts in diversity and inclusion, please visit the