R&D Operations Team Leader

The R&D Operations Team Leader is responsible for leading all operational activities that support the company’s R&D functions, ensuring that laboratories, infrastructure, and logistics systems are planned, built, and maintained to meet current and future innovation needs.

This role oversees a multidisciplinary team covering logistics, infrastructure and lab setup, electrical assembly, laboratory management, and technical support.

The R&D Operations Team Leader ensures that all R&D teams have the facilities, equipment, and processes required for efficient, safe, and continues product development.

Key Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Management
• Lead and manage a multidisciplinary team including warehouse and logistics staff, lab and infrastructure engineers, assembly technicians, lab supervisor and a master electrician.
• Set priorities, define team objectives and KPIs, and drive execution to meet goals.
• Mentor, coach, and develop team members while planning future resource needs and capabilities.
• Collaborate closely with R&D directors, procurement, safety, facilities, IT, and other internal stakeholders.
• R&D Infrastructure Development
• Own the full lifecycle of R&D labs: planning, construction, upgrades, and ongoing maintenance.
• Lead strategic projects such as establishing new labs, upgrading existing infrastructure, and standardizing facilities across sites.
• Plan and oversee electrical, safety, and communication infrastructure to support current and future R&D needs (e.g., testing stations, automation, power capacity).
• Review, approve, and ensure the quality of technical plans and designs prepared by the infrastructure team and master electrician.
• Logistics & Supply Chain for R&D
• Oversee inventory management for components, test equipment, and specialized tools, including internal and external storage facilities.
• Ensure continuous availability of equipment and materials while managing costs and lead times.
• Supervise the transport of heavy equipment between sites, including vendor selection and logistics coordination.
• Continuously improve inventory, procurement, and fulfillment processes to streamline support for R&D teams.
• Safety, Compliance & Standards
• Ensure a safe working environment in all R&D labs in accordance with relevant regulations and industry standards.
• Oversee lab safety training for both lab users and team members.
• Drive compliance in all infrastructure planning, lab operations, and assembly activities.
• Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement
• Lead process improvement initiatives to enhance lab efficiency and supply chain effectiveness.
• Identify bottlenecks and implement innovative solutions to improve infrastructure readiness and reduce downtime.
• Manage the department’s budget and infrastructure project expenditures, ensuring transparency and alignment with corporate priorities.