Head of RTI - Global R&D, AWM

Innovation is at the heart of Smith+Nephew. We develop and deliver new products that resolve the challenges of our customers and improve patient outcomes. We develop technologies through our global Research Development (RD) program, and by acquiring and integrating exciting technologies where we can add value and make a meaningful difference to our customers and their patients. The Head of RTI RD, AWM is a critical and highly visible position in the company.

The person in this role will drive the early innovation strategy and process in partnership with the Global Marketing and NPD leads and transfer the multi-generational innovation pipeline to New Product Development to support our AWM revenue growth. This role will involve creating and developing the core technology roadmaps to support the long-term strategic plan that underpins AWM New Product Development roadmaps to meet the customer and strategic needs of the business to deliver high quality, timely products to market.

This person will also be the lead technology assessor for the initial MA/External Innovation opportunities across AWM, making appropriate recommendations aligned to strategic growth drivers with the Global Marketing lead. The person in this role will report to the Vice President of AWM RD and lead the activity of ~20+ non-direct reports who are based out of sites in Hull and Andover, Massachusetts.

This position will be responsible for driving several high impact strategic technology and product developments and provide SME direction as required on technical design decisions to accelerate and drive business growth.

The individual will act as an expert within the company both within and beyond their own function (materials science, biomechanics, simulation techniques, new product development processes, etc.) on multiple product platforms, and in the context of the commercial and customer requirements. This role will have regular interaction with the Global Marketing Vice Presidents across AWM to influence strategic technology and innovation investment decisions.

The individual should have a broad and comprehensive understanding of the evolving technology advancements in materials science, adhesives, bio-actives, electromechanical devices, NPWT, etc., and is responsible for the technical success and onboarding of NPD projects.

What will you be doing?

• As a member of the Global Wound RD Leadership team, drive the goals, future development, and objectives of the Wound RD organisation.
• Accountable for AWM technology roadmaps to meet customer and commercial needs, for prioritised Franchise programmes, ensuring these are delivered on scope and to plan.
• Compliantly partner with HCPs including Strategic Innovation Council / Ad boards and KOL partnerships. Responsible for the technology review council.
• Plan and coordinate the resources of the indirect Product Development team, and 3rd party development partners, to execute technology roadmaps. Includes highly dynamic response to unexpected occurrences (e.g., unforeseen design rework, issues with strategic partnerships, Regulatory changes, etc.).
• Participate as an active member of the AWM RD Leadership team supporting and driving continuous improvement programmes and cross RD initiatives to enable RD to meet their strategy and roadmap.

What will you need to be successful?

• Location: UK - Hull or willingness to travel to site 2-3 days per week.
• Education: Relevant Sciences or Engineering BSc, MSc/PhD preferred.
• Experience: Pharmaceutical / Medical Device related development with a clear bias to class I to class III medical devices (material science and engineering).
• Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills.
• Flexibility and adaptability managing multiple priorities.
• Effective oral and written communication skills across levels.
• Ability to work cross-functionally to align on priorities, coordinate resources, and execute work.
• Deep knowledge of systems engineering, materials science, and wound biology characteristics.
• Competency for interpreting customer needs and converting them into scientific and business solutions.