Functional Engineering Leader - NPI, Sustaining Engineering & Innovation (m/f/d)

WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN:

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of innovation, product engineering, and materials technology within a global business. As a key member of the leadership team, you will influence technology strategy, drive meaningful innovation, and lead diverse, high-performing teams delivering solutions that create value for customers worldwide. You will join an inclusive and collaborative environment that encourages different perspectives, continuous learning, and the adoption of emerging technologies to accelerate growth and engineering excellence.

YOUR MAIN TASKS:

• Lead the global NPI, sustaining engineering, qualification labs, VAVE, and innovation portfolio from concept through industrialization, launch, and lifecycle support.


• Define and execute the technology and product engineering roadmap, aligning business strategy, customer needs, automotive requirements, and technology trends.


• Drive the development of differentiated material and product solutions that strengthen market position and support business growth.


• Oversee program execution, including prioritization, resource planning, risk management, technical reviews, qualification activities, and launch readiness.


• Lead value engineering and cost optimization initiatives in partnership with operations, quality, supply chain, product management, and commercial teams.


• Develop internal and external innovation networks by collaborating with suppliers, universities, technology partners, and industry experts.


• Build, coach, and develop a global engineering organization while championing digital engineering, AI adoption, continuous improvement, and cross-functional collaboration.

YOUR IDEAL BACKGROUND:

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Engineering, or a related technical discipline; an advanced degree is an advantage.


• Significant leadership experience in materials science, product development, innovation, NPI, sustaining engineering, qualification labs, or VAVE environments.


• Strong understanding of automotive applications, customer requirements, qualification processes, and relevant material systems.


• Proven experience leading global or multi-regional teams within complex matrix organizations and delivering against strategic roadmaps.


• Strong commercial and technical acumen, with the ability to align engineering investment and innovation priorities with business objectives.


• Experience collaborating with external technology partners, suppliers, universities, and industry stakeholders to accelerate innovation and capability development.


• Knowledge of digital engineering and AI-enabled tools, with a track record of driving adoption and working effectively across engineering, manufacturing, quality, operations, and supply chain functions.

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