Head of R&D Project Management

Role Overview

• Structure R&D activities and ways of working
• Define how the different types of R&D activities should be managed (planning, governance, tracking, documentation)
• Standardize project management practices across the department (processes, templates, tools, Project Manager and PMO scopes)
• Lead the PMO team
• Manage and develop a team of Project Management Officers supporting priority projects, monitoring performance and coordinating with support departments (Legal, Purchasing)
• Set team priorities and allocate PMO support across the portfolio
• Ensure consistent and effective support to Project Managers
• Organize prioritization and follow-up
• Define and run the process to select and prioritize R&D activities
• Organize regular portfolio and project reviews
• Ensure activities are properly planned and kept up to date
• Track performance and support decision-making
• Define and track key indicators (progress, risks, budget, resources)
• Maintain a consolidated and up-to-date view of the R&D portfolio (status, spend, resource allocation) and provide clear reporting to support prioritization and resource allocation decisions
• Coordinate with support functions and funding activities
• Structure interactions with Legal and Purchasing (contracts, suppliers, procurement)
• Support identification of funding opportunities (grants, subsidies) and application processes
• Ensure these activities are anticipated and integrated into project planning
• Ensure quality and ISO 9001 compliance
• Define and document required processes
• Prepare the department for certification (documentation, audits)
• Ensure processes are applied and continuously improved
• Improve ways of working
• Identify inefficiencies and simplify processes
• Support adoption of tools and good project management practices

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Science, Business, or a related field
• 8+ years of experience in project or program management, ideally in an R&D environment
• Experience leading or structuring a PMO, including portfolio oversight and team management
• Ability to bring structure and clarity in complex environments
• Strong analytical skills
• Budget tracking and cost control
• Leadership and team management skills
• Ability to align and influence stakeholders
• Clear and concise communication
• Pragmatic and solution-oriented mindset

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible work arrangements