VP of R&D with a Global Manufacturer – Cleveland, OH

Position Overview

JRG Partners is proud to partner with a world-renowned, multi-billion dollar global manufacturer in search of a transformative Vice President of Research & Development based in Cleveland, OH. In this executive leadership role, you will steer the company’s technological vision, drive innovative product development, and shape a future-focused R&D strategy that supports long-term global growth. Reporting directly to the CTO and collaborating with the executive team, you will lead a talented, multi-disciplinary team in a dynamic manufacturing environment renowned for quality, sustainability, and cutting-edge solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive, long-range R&D and technology strategy aligned with corporate goals, monitoring industry trends and emerging technologies.
• Oversee the new product development lifecycle from ideation to successful commercial launch, ensuring projects meet time, budget, and quality standards.
• Champion a culture of disciplined innovation, managing a balanced portfolio of incremental improvements and disruptive, next-generation solutions.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a world-class R&D team, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
• Assume full P&L responsibility; develop and manage the annual R&D budget, track KPIs, and deliver regular performance reports.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Sales, Operations, and Finance to ensure successful product launches and market adoption.
• Oversee the company’s intellectual property portfolio and work with legal counsel to secure and protect technological assets.
• Ensure all R&D activities comply with the highest standards of quality, safety, and regulatory requirements across global markets.
• Identify and develop strategic external partnerships, including alliances with universities, research institutions, and technology startups.

Required Qualifications

• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field. An MBA or equivalent business degree is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive research and development experience, including 7-10 years in a senior leadership role within a global manufacturing organization.
• Deep technical knowledge and proven experience in an industrial manufacturing environment, including familiarity with advanced materials, automation, process engineering, or polymer science.
• Documented success in leading the development and commercialization of innovative products that drive revenue growth and market share.
• Strong strategic thinking with proven budget management, financial analysis, and the ability to build compelling business cases for R&D investments.
• Exceptional leadership and people management skills, with a proven ability to build, scale, and motivate diverse technical teams.
• Superior communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience working in a global organization, managing international teams, and understanding global market dynamics and regulatory landscapes.
• Ability to work on-site at the company’s headquarters in Cleveland, OH; a comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.

Benefits & Perks

• Executive Compensation Package: A highly competitive base salary, significant annual performance-based bonus, and a long-term incentive plan including stock options or restricted stock units.
• Comprehensive Health & Wellness: Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents, plus access to wellness programs and mental health resources.
• Retirement & Financial Planning: Robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match and potential profit sharing, along with financial planning services.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Extensive PTO policy including vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays to support work-life balance.
• Professional Growth & Development: Dedicated budget for executive coaching, attendance at premier industry conferences, and advanced certifications.
• Relocation Assistance: A comprehensive, white-glove relocation package to ensure a smooth transition to Cleveland, OH.
• Additional perks include employee product discounts, company-sponsored social events, and a modern, collaborative work environment with state-of-the-art facilities.