Director of Research & Development

Company: Cento

Location: London

Posted: April 17th, 2026

Provide strategic leadership for a global Research & Development function within a multinational organisation
Set and deliver product and technology development strategy aligned to business objectives
Lead all new product development and product improvement programmes across multiple regions
Foster collaboration, knowledge sharing and consistency across international R&D teams

Oversee delivery of complex, regulated technology products from concept through release
Define project priorities, success criteria, budgets, timelines and resource plans
Drive innovation, quality, and continuous improvement across R&D processes
Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements
Lead, develop and retain high performing, multi disciplinary R&D teams
Own R&D budget planning, control and reporting
Present development outcomes to senior stakeholders and external forums as required

Senior R&D or Engineering leader from a multinational, matrix structured organisation
Proven track record delivering complex product development programmes on time and on budget
Strong experience managing geographically dispersed technical teams
Commercially aware, with the ability to align innovation to market and business needs
Confident communicator with the credibility to influence at executive level

Degree in Engineering, Electronics, Product Design or related discipline
Significant experience leading R&D functions in electronics, safety critical or regulated industries
Strong knowledge of product development lifecycles, testing and validation
Experience with project and programme management methodologies

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