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Senior Director - Research & Development

Laser Technologies

Stockport, UK

Shape the Future of Advanced Laser Technology

At Novanta, our technologies help power some of the world's most advanced applications, from life-changing medical innovations and robotics to semiconductor manufacturing and industrial automation.

We are seeking an exceptional R&D Leader to shape the future of our Laser Technologies business.

This is more than an engineering leadership role.

You will lead the strategy, capability development and execution of a globally respected R&D organisation responsible for creating technologies that solve complex customer challenges worldwide.

The Opportunity:

As a key member of the leadership team, you will lead approximately 50 engineers and scientists while defining the future technology roadmap for a business generating more than $120M in revenue.

You will oversee:

• Research and innovation strategy

• Technology roadmaps

• New product development

• Sustaining engineering

• Portfolio prioritisation

• Engineering leadership development

• Product lifecycle governance

You will partner closely with Product Management, Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, Service and Commercial teams to ensure technology investments translate into measurable customer and business value.

What you will do:

Lead Innovation

Define and execute the technology and R&D strategy that shapes future product platforms and market opportunities.

Drive Operational Excellence

Strengthen stage-gate development processes while improving predictability, quality, speed and commercial outcomes.

Develop Leaders

Build organisational capability through coaching, succession planning and leadership development.

Influence Business Strategy

Connect technical investments with growth objectives, customer value and long-term market opportunities.

What we are looking for:

• Extensive experience developing complex technology products

• Senior leadership experience within R&D or Engineering

• Proven portfolio and organisational leadership capability

• Technology roadmap ownership

• Stage-gate product development expertise

• Commercial and financial acumen

• Experience leading multifunctional engineering teams

• Ability to influence executive-level decision making

• Strong technical credibility in complex technical environments

Highly Relevant Industry Backgrounds

• Photonics

• Lasers

• Semiconductor equipment

• Medical technology

• Advanced manufacturing

• Scientific instrumentation

• Complex electromechanical systems

Why Novanta?

• Strategic executive-level influence

• Global technology leadership

• Significant R&D investment responsibility

• Leading-edge innovation

• Strong growth trajectory

• Opportunity to shape future technology platforms

If you are a visionary technology leader who combines engineering excellence with business leadership, we would welcome a conversation. Reach out to Rebecca Pelham to discuss further, or apply today.

We are committed to providing an inclusive recruitment process. If you require reasonable adjustments at any stage, for example with applications, interviews, or assessments, please inform the Talent Acquisition Partner. We will work with you to understand your needs and make appropriate arrangements so you can perform at your best.

Novanta is proud to be an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action workplace. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, military and veteran status, disability, genetics, or any other category protected by federal law or Novanta policy.

Please call +1 781-266-5700 if you need a disability accommodation for any part of the employment process.