R&D Manager

Position Title: Senior Manager R&D
Company Name : JSW Gecko Motors Pvt Ltd
Location: Chandigarh
Reports To: Chief Technical Officer
Department: Research & Development

Position Overview:
The right candidate will lead and oversee the research and development of innovative automotive technologies, components, and systems for the company’s new product development. The role will be instrumental in developing cutting-edge designs, enhancing product performance, improving vehicle safety, and ensuring sustainability in manufacturing processes. The R&D Manager will manage a team of engineers, designers, and technical experts, driving the development of new vehicles and technologies that align with market demands and regulatory standards. The right candidate will work closely with the Chief Technical Officer.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Team Management:
• Lead and manage a multidisciplinary R&D team of automotive engineers, designers, and researchers focused on product development, testing, and innovation.
• Foster a collaborative and creative work environment to drive team performance and innovation.
• Mentor and provide professional development opportunities for team members, encouraging continuous learning and skill advancement.
• Product & Technology Development:
• Lead the design and development of new vehicle models, systems, components, and technologies (e.g., electric vehicles, autonomous systems, safety features, powertrains).
• Identify emerging automotive trends, technologies, and customer needs to drive new product initiatives.
• Oversee the conceptualization, prototyping, testing, and validation of new automotive designs and components.
• Collaborate with design, engineering, and manufacturing teams to ensure the integration of advanced technologies into production models.
• Project & Budget Management:
• Develop and manage R&D project timelines, ensuring milestones are met, and projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Allocate resources effectively, balancing short-term project goals with long-term strategic objectives.
• Ensure R&D budgets are adhered to, providing cost-efficient solutions while maintaining high-quality standards.
• Collaboration Across Functions:
• Work closely with the engineering, manufacturing, marketing, and quality assurance departments to ensure alignment between product development and customer requirements.
• Collaborate with suppliers and external partners for advanced technology integration, sourcing components, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Communicate R&D progress and results to senior management, stakeholders, and external partners.
• Quality Assurance & Compliance:
• Ensure that all R&D activities adhere to the relevant automotive safety regulations, environmental standards, and quality assurance processes.
• Manage product testing and validation to meet both internal and regulatory standards (e.g., crash testing, emissions testing, durability testing).
• Oversee continuous improvement initiatives within the R&D function to drive product quality and innovation.
• Sustainability & Environmental Focus:
• Lead research into sustainable automotive technologies, including energy-efficient vehicles, electric vehicle powertrains, and green manufacturing processes.
• Drive initiatives that align with corporate sustainability goals, ensuring that R&D projects contribute to reducing the environmental impact of the company's products and operations.
• Market & Competitive Research:
• Conduct in-depth market research to stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitor products.
• Analyze consumer feedback, vehicle performance data, and market insights to inform R&D strategies and product development decisions.
• Innovation & Problem-Solving:
• Continuously seek innovative solutions to challenges in design, manufacturing, performance, and safety.
• Stay abreast of industry advancements (e.g., autonomous driving, AI integration, EV technology) and explore their applicability to the company’s products.

Qualifications:
Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field (Master's or Ph.D. preferred).
• At least 12 years of experience in automotive R&D, product development, or engineering, with a minimum of 4 years in a managerial role.
• Strong background in automotive engineering, vehicle design, or manufacturing processes.
• Demonstrated experience in leading cross-functional teams and managing complex R&D projects.

Skills & Competencies:

• Expertise in automotive design, development, and testing, including experience with CAD, CAE, and simulation tools.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects, timelines, and budgets effectively.
• Knowledge of regulatory standards and safety requirements in the automotive industry (e.g., crash testing, emissions, ISO).
• Experience with emerging automotive technologies (e.g., electric vehicles, hybrid systems, autonomous driving, connectivity).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate customer and market needs into technical solutions.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to interact with senior leadership, suppliers, and external partners.
• Proficiency with automotive development software tools and project management platforms.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong leadership and decision-making capabilities with a focus on driving results.
• Highly innovative and solution-oriented, with the ability to think outside the box.
• Collaborative mindset, with the ability to work effectively across multiple teams and departments.
• Detail-oriented, with a commitment to quality and safety in product development.

Working Conditions:

• This position is based at Chandigarh with occasional travel to other facilities, testing sites, and conferences.
• Regular office-based work, with on-site visits to manufacturing and testing locations as required.
• Flexibility may be required to accommodate project deadlines and testing schedules