Head of Research Development

2 months ago

Crawley West Sussex, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

Welland Medical brings to market the best and most innovative products that enhance the lives of people living with a stoma across the world. Investing in the most talented people, collaborating to create world-class, ground-breaking products and services devoted to improving peoples’ lives. Welland Medical is a part of Clinimed Holdings Limited, a prominent figure in the Healthcare and Medical Equipment sector. Clinimed Holdings Limited comprises a group of companies established in 1982 through the acquisition and formation of various entities within the group.

We believe that investing in our people is critical to our success and we're committed to helping our employees develop their skills, advance their careers, and achieve their professional goals.

We're proud of our company culture, which is built on a foundation of collaboration, teamwork, and open communication. As the leader of our established creative team, you will collaborate closely with all members of the R&D department and the broader organization to develop cutting-edge medical devices for Ostomy Care. You will be actively engaged in the New Product Development process, guiding and shaping new product strategies, maintaining the product roadmap, and overseeing design and technical specifications. Your contributions will be pivotal in advancing Welland’s New Product Development process, ultimately transforming patient care through groundbreaking solutions.

As the Head of R&D, you will be a key member of the leadership team, driving the strategic direction of new product development.

Lead and mentor the Research and Development team/s focused on the development of new medical devices, in the Ostomy field, providing guidance, training, and support to foster a high-performing, innovative environment.
Manage a multidisciplinary team comprising Product, Mechanical, and Design Engineers, Research Scientists, and Senior Materials Research Engineers, ranging from entry-level to senior level.
Oversee and continuously improve Welland’s development process within the New Product Development (NPD) framework, ensuring it remains current and adaptable to regulatory changes and departmental advancements.
Project manage the entire device development process through phase gates and product lifecycle, aligning with Welland’s strategic plans and product roadmap.
Contribute to the development of new devices, from initial concept to clinical trial readiness, in accordance with Welland’s development strategy, quality system, and process.
Review and oversee technical reports and design documentation, including biological evaluation reports, traceability matrices, DFMEAs, and raw materials and packaging specifications, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Drive new product, material, and process development, including initial characterization, verification, and validation in line with company procedures.
Develop and monitor project cost and time plans, implementing mitigation strategies when necessary.
Support distributor co-creation and complex complaint resolution, working closely with Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs (QARA) in technical investigations and regulatory submissions.
Serve as the technical authority for Welland Medical’s product portfolio, both internally and externally.
Collaborate with QARA, Production, and Engineering teams to ensure seamless transitions throughout the NPD pipeline.
Evaluate and mitigate risks using DFMEAs or other appropriate methodologies.
Oversee the recruitment, management, and development of the R&D teams, ensuring performance management and personal development reviews focus on achieving KPIs and enhancing competencies.
Manage departmental budgets, adhering to approved financial plans and schedules, and contribute to the annual strategic planning process.
Uphold Welland’s commitment to high-quality product standards and reliability benchmarks.
Ensure compliance with the Welland Medical Quality System, standards, and regulatory requirements, including adherence to ISO13485 and the Medical Device Regulation (MDR).
A degree in a relevant field such as science or technology is desirable, with a strong understanding of manufacturing operations.
BEng or BSc in Product/Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or equivalent academic/work experience.
Project Management qualification (e.g., PRINCE2 or equivalent) to ensure effective planning, execution, and management of projects, delivered on time, within budget, and to the required standards.

Hands-on leadership, motivation, and development of an R&D team.
Strong technical and innovation background, with experience delivering projects from concept through to manufacturing, and a deep understanding of the product development process.
Experience working as part of a senior management team, contributing to strategy development and execution.
Proven track record in budgetary control, ensuring compliance with agreed financial targets.
Project management experience, including planning, execution, and management within an R&D and manufacturing environment.
Experience in patent development, management, and application.
Financial acumen, with the ability to manage costs, drive revenue growth, and optimize profits.
Management of safety and regulatory compliance (GMP) in a manufacturing environment.
Experience working to medical design standards within the medical device industry, including MDR, ISO 13485, and FDA Design Control.

Design experience within the medical device field.
Experience with injection moulding.
Experience working within a manufacturing/industrial environment.
Strategic decision-making ability, capable of developing and executing strategies to enhance product design and manufacturing processes, aligning with company goals, and defining team training requirements.
Proficiency in 3D CAD and associated analysis tools, with strong skills in SolidWorks or similar software.
Excellent problem-solving abilities, adept at root cause analysis, identifying issues, and generating design solutions in compliance with specifications.
High computer literacy, coupled with exceptional planning, organizational, and time management skills.
Experience in medical device design is advantageous, but all product design experience is valued.
Solid technical knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality control, supply chain management, and inventory control.
Strong analytical skills, capable of interpreting complex data and making informed decisions, including strategic planning and budgeting.
Commitment to continuous improvement (CI) in processes and systems to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve quality.
Knowledgeable about safety and regulatory compliance (QMS), ensuring adherence to all relevant laws and standards.

  • Head of Research and Development

    4 weeks ago

    Crawley, West Sussex, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

    About UsWelland Medical Ltd is a leading company in the development of innovative medical devices for ostomy care. Our mission is to improve the lives of people living with a stoma by creating cutting-edge products that meet their unique needs.About the RoleWe are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Head of Research and Development to lead our R&D team...

  • Head of Research And Development

    2 weeks ago

    Crawley, West Sussex, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

    About Us: Welland Medical brings to market the best and most innovative products that enhance the lives of people living with a stoma across the world. Investing in the most talented people, collaborating to create world-class, ground-breaking products and services devoted to improving peoples’ lives. We are passionate about making a difference in the...

  • Head of Research and Development

    3 weeks ago

    Crawley, West Sussex, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

    About the RoleWelland Medical Ltd is seeking an exceptional Head of Research and Development to lead our team of experts in creating innovative medical devices for Ostomy Care. As a key member of our leadership team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of our New Product Development process.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and Mentor the...

  • Head of Research and Development

    4 weeks ago

    Crawley, West Sussex, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

    About the RoleWe are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Head of Research and Development to join our team at Welland Medical Ltd. As the leader of our R&D department, you will be responsible for driving the development of new medical devices for Ostomy Care.Key Responsibilities:Lead and mentor the R&D team to develop innovative solutions and...

  • Head of Research and Development

    4 weeks ago

    Crawley, West Sussex, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

    About Us:Welland Medical Ltd is a leading company in the healthcare industry, dedicated to developing innovative products that improve the lives of people with a stoma. Our team is passionate about creating cutting-edge solutions that make a difference in the world.We are part of Clinimed Holdings Limited, a prominent figure in the Healthcare and Medical...

  • Head of Development

    2 weeks ago

    Crawley, West Sussex, United Kingdom Clearwater People Solutions Ltd Full time

    ***Exciting New Opportunity*** We have partnered with an innovative, fast growing, technology-first company to recruit for a forward thinking Head of Development to lead their team on a permanent basis through a period of change and improvement. The perfect candidate will thrive in a transformative environment as this role will include defining TOM, team...

  • Head of Development

    2 weeks ago

    Crawley, West Sussex, United Kingdom Clearwater People Solutions Ltd Full time

    ***Exciting New Opportunity*** We have partnered with an innovative, fast growing, technology-first company to recruit for a forward thinking Head of Development to lead their team on a permanent basis through a period of change and improvement. The perfect candidate will thrive in a transformative environment as this role will include defining TOM, team...

  • Head of Research And Development

    6 days ago

    West Midlands, United Kingdom Instant Impact Full time

    About the RoleOur client in the West Midlands are looking for a Head of Research and Development to lead their engineering division. The Head of Research and Development (R&D) will lead the innovation and development of cutting-edge solutions for a technology-driven company with a strong electronic emphasis. This role demands a visionary leader with a strong...

  • Head of Research And Development

    6 days ago

    West Midlands, United Kingdom Instant Impact Full time

    Job Description About the Role Our client in the West Midlands are looking for a Head of Research and Development to lead their engineering division. The Head of Research and Development (R&D) will lead the innovation and development of cutting-edge solutions for a technology-driven company with a strong electronic emphasis. This role demands a visionary...

  • Senior Research Manager

    4 weeks ago

    West of England, United Kingdom Meningitis Research Foundation Full time

    Job DescriptionSenior Research Manager - BristolRemote or hybrid working available£40,000 - £43,999 depending on experienceFixed term up to March 2027Meningitis Research Foundation is an international health charity headquartered in the UK, driven by a passionate mission to prevent the devastating impact of meningitis.Our vision is a world free of...

  • Head of Building Development

    2 weeks ago

    Crawley, West Sussex, United Kingdom Clearwater People Solutions Ltd Full time

    We have partnered with an innovative, fast growing, technology-first company to recruit for a forward thinking Head of Development to lead their team on a permanent basis through a period of change and improvement. The successful Head of Development will be a strategic thinker, an inspirational leader and driver of innovation. This is a hybrid role,...

  • Head of Building Development

    2 weeks ago

    Crawley, West Sussex, United Kingdom Clearwater People Solutions Ltd Full time

    We have partnered with an innovative, fast growing, technology-first company to recruit for a forward thinking Head of Development to lead their team on a permanent basis through a period of change and improvement. The successful Head of Development will be a strategic thinker, an inspirational leader and driver of innovation. This is a hybrid role,...

  • Head of Research And Development

    3 weeks ago

    Crawley, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

    About Us:Welland Medical brings to market the best and most innovative products that enhance the lives of people living with a stoma across the world. Investing in the most talented people, collaborating to create world-class, ground-breaking products and services devoted to improving peoples’ lives. We are passionate about making a difference in the...

  • Head of Research And Development

    1 month ago

    Crawley, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

    About Us:Welland Medical brings to market the best and most innovative products that enhance the lives of people living with a stoma across the world. Investing in the most talented people, collaborating to create world-class, ground-breaking products and services devoted to improving peoples’ lives. We are passionate about making a difference in the...

  • Head of Research And Development

    1 month ago

    Crawley, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

    About Us:Welland Medical brings to market the best and most innovative products that enhance the lives of people living with a stoma across the world. Investing in the most talented people, collaborating to create world-class, ground-breaking products and services devoted to improving peoples’ lives. We are passionate about making a difference in the...

  • Head of Research And Development

    1 month ago

    Crawley, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

    About Us:Welland Medical brings to market the best and most innovative products that enhance the lives of people living with a stoma across the world. Investing in the most talented people, collaborating to create world-class, ground-breaking products and services devoted to improving peoples’ lives. We are passionate about making a difference in the...

  • Head of Research And Development

    7 days ago

    West Midlands, UK, UK, United Kingdom Instant Impact Full time

    About the RoleOur client in the West Midlands are looking for a Head of Research and Development to lead their engineering division. The Head of Research and Development (R&D) will lead the innovation and development of cutting-edge solutions for a technology-driven company with a strong electronic emphasis. This role demands a visionary leader with a strong...

  • Head of Research And Development

    2 weeks ago

    Crawley, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

    Job Description About Us: Welland Medical brings to market the best and most innovative products that enhance the lives of people living with a stoma across the world. Investing in the most talented people, collaborating to create world-class, ground-breaking products and services devoted to improving peoples’ lives. We are passionate about making a...

  • Research and Development Director

    4 weeks ago

    Crawley, West Sussex, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

    Job DescriptionWelland Medical Ltd is seeking a highly skilled and experienced professional to lead our Research and Development team. As the Head of Medical Device Innovation, you will be responsible for driving the development of new medical devices that enhance the lives of people living with a stoma.Key Responsibilities:Lead and mentor a team of...

  • Head of Research And Development

    1 month ago

    Crawley, UK, West Sussex, United Kingdom Welland Medical Ltd Full time

    About Us:Welland Medical brings to market the best and most innovative products that enhance the lives of people living with a stoma across the world. Investing in the most talented people, collaborating to create world-class, ground-breaking products and services devoted to improving peoples’ lives. We are passionate about making a difference in the...