Description

A senior research and development (R&D) manager is a high-level executive who oversees the development of new products or software. The manager must be intimately familiar with the company’s branding and strategy, and then work with R&D staff to improve existing products and introduce new ones that conform to the company’s brand image.The R&D manager oversees all management and scientific or engineering work under the "research and development" umbrella. This usually entails close reading of reports and testing results, as well as the ability to make modifications to projects as required. The senior manager uses a variety of analytical tools to determine the direction for future project development. He or she implements development schedules and holds managers and engineers accountable for meeting deadlines in the development process. The senior manager also must be able to judge when to postpone or cancel work on a project based on expected expenses and profitability. The senior manager creates detailed progress reports for senior board members to present to shareholders in the company.To work as a senior research and development manager, a person must have a strong scientific or engineering background in the hiring company's area of specialty; most persons considered for this employment typically have post-baccalaureate education in a management discipline as well. The work typically takes place in an office environment during regular business hours.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Sr. Research & Development Manager in Canada with 6-9 years of experience, your main responsibilities include:

  • Lead and manage a team of researchers and developers to drive innovation and product development.
  • Develop research strategies and roadmaps to align with company objectives and market trends.
  • Oversee the design and execution of experiments, analyze data, and provide technical guidance to ensure high-quality research outcomes.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing and production, to translate research findings into actionable insights and successful product launches.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Sr. Research & Development Manager, the following qualifications are required:

  • Advanced degree in a relevant field such as engineering, computer science, or life sciences, along with proven experience in research and development.
  • Strong leadership skills to effectively manage a team of researchers, drive innovation and ensure timely delivery of projects.
  • Solid project management skills to plan, oversee, and prioritize multiple research initiatives, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills to effectively convey complex scientific concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including senior management and external partners.

Essential Skills For Sr. Research & Development Manager

1

Analysis Techniques

2

Research

3

Research Methods

Career Prospects

The role of an Sr. Research & Development Manager in Canada, with 6-9 years of experience, is crucial for driving innovation and managing research projects. Professionals in this field can explore various alternative roles that align with their expertise. Here are four options to consider:

  • Innovation Manager: A role focused on driving innovation strategies, facilitating collaboration, and identifying new opportunities for growth.
  • Product Development Manager: A position that involves overseeing the entire product development lifecycle, from concept ideation to launch, ensuring quality and timely delivery.
  • Technology Commercialization Manager: A role that involves transforming research and development outcomes into marketable products or services, including licensing and intellectual property management.
  • Project Manager: A position that entails leading cross-functional teams, managing budgets and timelines, and ensuring successful project execution.

How to Learn

The Sr. Research & Development Manager role in Canada is projected to experience significant growth in the market. According to recent data from Google, the job role has shown consistent growth over the past 10 years. The demand for these professionals is expected to continue rising, with a steady increase in employment opportunities in the future. With Canada's focus on innovation and technology, companies are increasingly investing in research and development, driving the need for experienced managers in this field. The projected growth of this position is promising for individuals seeking career opportunities in research and development management in Canada.