- Location
- USA, OR
- Type
- Full-time
- Department
- IT
- Seniority
- VP
- Experience
- 15+ years
- Education
- PhD
- Source
- PCRecruiter
Description
Vice President, Research & Development
Orthopedic Medical Device Company | Retained Search
Our client is a 30+ year established, privately held orthopedic medical device manufacturer with a strong reputation for innovation and quality. They are seeking a Vice President of R&D to join their executive leadership team.
Reporting to the President, this individual will lead the innovation strategy, product development pipeline, and execution of new products across implants, instrumentation, biologics, and enabling technologies.
Position Overview
The VP of R&D is responsible for driving the development of safe, effective, and commercially successful products, while ensuring alignment across engineering, clinical, regulatory, and business objectives. This leader will oversee research, product design, engineering, testing, and design assurance functions.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and execute the R&D and innovation strategy aligned with corporate growth goals
- Lead the product development lifecycle from concept through commercialization
- Drive innovation in implant design, biomechanics, and surgical technologies
- Partner with executive leadership on portfolio strategy, investment planning, and M&A evaluation
- Ensure compliance with FDA, ISO 13485, MDR, and global regulatory standards
- Collaborate with surgeons and key opinion leaders (KOLs) to inform product development
- Manage R&D budgets, KPIs, and operational performance
- Build and lead high-performing engineering and R&D teams
Qualifications
- 15+ years of experience in medical device R&D, with a focus in orthopedics
- 8+ years of senior leadership experience leading cross-functional teams
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or related technical field required. - Master’s or PhD in a relevant discipline preferred. MBA or equivalent business education is desirable.
- Proven track record of successful product launches
- Strong expertise in biomechanics, implant design, and materials (e.g., titanium, PEEK, polymers)
- Deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, design controls, and risk management
- Experience working closely with surgeons and clinical stakeholders
Leadership Profile
- Strategic, data-driven leader with strong business and financial acumen
- Proven ability to build and develop high-performing teams
- Collaborative and influential with strong executive presence
- Innovation-focused with a commitment to operational excellence
