R&D Manager

R&D Manager

Staplehurst, Kent (commutable from Maidstone, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Ashford, Cranbrook, Sittingbourne & surrounding areas)

We are a specialist organization established for over 50 years, operating globally across healthcare, defence, aerospace, and quantum technologies. This role offers the opportunity to lead a diverse engineering function, delivering from concept to manufacture, and driving the growth of a market‑leading technical team.

• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary Engineering & R&D team spanning mechanical, electronics, systems, software, and physics.
• Oversee technical governance and resource planning from initial concept design through to manufacturing, installation, and continuous improvement.
• Balance technical excellence with commercial objectives, collaborating closely with production teams to support successful new product development.
• Serve as a senior technical leader reporting directly to the Managing Director.

• Proven experience as an Engineering Manager or Technical Team Lead.
• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electronics, Physics, or a closely related technical discipline.
• Strong understanding of the full engineering product lifecycle and strategic management within an advanced sector.

• Highly competitive salary bracket available.
• Executive training and senior progression opportunities.
• Pension scheme.

We are an equal opportunities company and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.