Vice President - Research & Development - Automotive

Job Title: Vice President Research & Development (Automotive)

Location: Pune, Maharashtra

Industry: Automotive / Mobility / EV / Tier-1 & OEM

Department: R&D / Product Development

Reporting To: Chief Technology Officer / CEO / Managing Director

Experience Required: 18+ years in Automotive R&D, with at least 5 years in a leadership role

Role Overview:

As the Vice President R&D, you will lead the companys research and product development efforts across powertrain, EV, ADAS, interior systems, or vehicle architecture (based on company focus).

You will be responsible for driving innovation, new product development, cost optimization, and engineering excellence aligned with global and regional market needs.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy

- Define and lead the R&D strategy aligned with the companys product roadmap and business vision.

- Drive new technology integration (EVs, AI/ADAS, connected mobility, lightweighting, etc.

- Foster a high-performance R&D culture focused on innovation, IP creation, and continuous improvement.

New Product Development

- Oversee end-to-end product development lifecycle from concept to SOP (Start of Production).

- Ensure timely delivery of project milestones, meeting quality, cost, and regulatory requirements.

- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Sales, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing).

Innovation & Technology Foresight

- Identify emerging trends and implement advanced engineering methodologies and tools.

- Manage partnerships with global tech suppliers, universities, and innovation labs.

Team & Budget Management

- Lead, mentor, and build high-performing engineering teams.

- Manage R&D budgets, resource allocation, and infrastructure investments (labs, testing, etc.

Compliance & Certification

- Ensure products comply with local and international automotive standards (e.g., ARAI, BIS, ISO 26262, etc.

Key Requirements:

- Bachelor's/Master's degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Automotive Engineering or equivalent.

- PhD or MBA (Technology Management) is a plus.

- Proven experience in leading large R&D functions (200+ engineers).

- Strong understanding of automotive systems, EV platforms, ADAS, and regulatory compliance.

- Experience working with global OEMs/Tier-1s and exposure to global product launches.

- Excellent project management, analytical and leadership skills.

- Strong IP strategy and technology scouting exposure.

Preferred Backgrounds:

- Tier-1 Automotive suppliers (e.g., Bosch, Continental, Schaeffler, Visteon).

- OEMs (e.g., Tata Motors, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz R&D India).

- Engineering Services (e.g., KPIT, Tata Technologies, L&T Tech).