R&D Manager

Job Profile for R&D Manager 46411

Position: R&D Manager
Location: Holmfirth
Salary: 40,000 - 50,000

A progressive and ambitious organisation is seeking a driven and versatile R&D Manager to lead the full product development lifecycle - from initial concept through to commercial delivery. This is a broad, hands-on role covering projects from precision components to complex automated systems across mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines.

This position plays a key role in driving innovation and shaping the future direction of the business within a competitive and evolving market.

Job Overview

• Own the full R&D lifecycle from concept, feasibility, and prototyping through to validation and commercial delivery
  Manage a diverse portfolio of projects, ranging from small components to complex automated systems
  Work across mechanical, electrical, and software engineering disciplines
  Translate customer needs and market opportunities into clear development plans
  Ensure all products are fully tested, validated, and ready for manufacture or deployment
  Identify and manage external suppliers, service providers, and development partners
  Maintain strong stakeholder relationships to ensure quality and timely delivery
  Lead, support, and develop a small R&D team, setting priorities and managing workloads
  Collaborate with operations, manufacturing, sales, and service teams
  Maintain clear project pipelines, reporting progress, risks, and timelines to senior leadership
  Ensure documentation, compliance, and adherence to industry standards and safety regulations
  Drive innovation strategy and continuous product improvement

Requirements

• Proven experience in an R&D or product development role within a manufacturing or engineering environment
  Experience leading or managing a small technical team
  Strong understanding of mechanical, electrical, and/or software engineering principles (electrical bias desirable)
  Experience managing external suppliers or development partners
  Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple workstreams
  Commercial awareness and ability to link product decisions to business outcomes
  Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
  Hands-on, problem-solving mindset with a proactive approach
  Background in beverage, food service, or similar industries advantageous but not essential

Salary & Benefits

Hours of Work
Monday to Thursday: 08:30 - 17:00
Friday: 09:00 - 15:00

Salary & Benefits
40,000 - 50,000 salary
Private healthcare
Company pension
Holiday entitlement
Supportive and collaborative working environment
Opportunity to shape and lead the R&D function
Career development within a growing and innovative business

Bennett and Game Recruitment are a multi-disciplined technical recruitment agency based in Chichester, West Sussex operating across the UK with specialist teams covering a range of industries.

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