Role Overview for VP, Research & Development with a MedTech Manufacturer – Irvine, CA
JRG Partners is proud to represent a pioneering medical technology manufacturer based in the vibrant tech hub of Irvine, California, in their search for a visionary Vice President of Research & Development. This is a paramount executive leadership role for an individual poised to shape the future of healthcare through groundbreaking innovation and strategic direction. Our client is a market leader, renowned for developing and commercializing life-saving and life-enhancing medical devices that address critical unmet clinical needs. They have built a reputation on a foundation of scientific rigor, engineering excellence, and an unwavering commitment to patient outcomes.
As the VP of R&D, you will be the driving force behind the company’s technological advancement and product pipeline. Reporting directly to the Chief Technology Officer (CTO), you will assume ultimate responsibility for the entire R&D function, from ideation and discovery through to product launch and post-market surveillance. This role requires a unique blend of scientific expertise, engineering prowess, business acumen, and inspirational leadership. You will be tasked with building and nurturing a world-class R&D organization, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and relentless innovation.
You will oversee a substantial budget and lead a multi-disciplinary team of brilliant scientists, engineers, project managers, and technicians. Your strategic vision will directly influence the company’s long-term growth trajectory, competitive positioning, and ability to make a meaningful impact on global health. This is more than a job; it is an opportunity to lead at the forefront of medical technology, translating complex scientific concepts into tangible products that save lives and improve the quality of life for patients worldwide.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Research & Development with a MedTech Manufacturer – Irvine, CA
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop and execute a comprehensive R&D strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives. Define the long-term technology roadmap, identify new growth areas, and champion a robust and valuable product pipeline.
Product Development Lifecycle Management
Provide executive oversight for all stages of the product development process, including conceptualization, feasibility studies, design, prototyping, verification, validation, and transfer to manufacturing. Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
Team Leadership & Development
Lead, mentor, and inspire a high-performing, multi-disciplinary R&D team. Foster a dynamic and inclusive culture that encourages innovation, risk-taking, and continuous learning. Recruit, retain, and develop top-tier talent to build organizational capability.
Regulatory & Quality Compliance
Ensure all R&D activities and documentation rigorously adhere to domestic and international regulatory standards. You will be responsible for navigating the complex requirements of the FDA regulations (510(k), PMA), ISO 13485, and other relevant global medical device regulations. Collaborate closely with the Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs departments to ensure seamless product submissions and approvals.
Fiscal & Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual R&D budget, ensuring optimal allocation of financial and human resources across the project portfolio. Implement metrics and KPIs to track project progress, departmental performance, and return on investment.
Intellectual Property Strategy
Oversee the company’s intellectual property portfolio. Work with legal counsel to identify patentable inventions, file applications, and protect the company’s technological assets and competitive advantage.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key member of the executive leadership team. Build strong, collaborative relationships with heads of Marketing, Sales, Operations, Clinical Affairs, and Finance to ensure cohesive product strategy and successful commercialization.
External Innovation & Partnerships
Stay at the forefront of scientific and technological advancements in the MedTech industry. Identify and evaluate external technologies, strategic partnerships, and potential acquisition targets to augment the internal R&D pipeline. Represent the company at scientific conferences, industry events, and with key opinion leaders (KOLs).
Requirements for the VP, Research & Development with a MedTech Manufacturer – Irvine, CA
Educational Background
An advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Material Science, or a related scientific discipline is required. An MBA is a plus.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in the medical device industry, with at least 7 years in a senior R&D leadership capacity (e.g., Director, Senior Director, or VP). Demonstrated success in leading teams through the full product development lifecycle, from concept to market launch.
Technical Expertise
Deep domain expertise in the design and development of complex medical devices. Experience with Class II and/or Class III devices is highly preferred. A strong understanding of areas such as implantable devices, diagnostic equipment, surgical instruments, or connected health technologies is essential.
Regulatory Acumen
Proven track record of successfully bringing products to market in a highly regulated environment. In-depth knowledge of FDA QSR (21 CFR 820), ISO 13485, risk management (ISO 14971), and design controls is mandatory.
Strategic Mindset
Ability to think strategically and translate business goals into actionable R&D plans. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make data-driven decisions in a complex environment.
Leadership & Communication
Exceptional leadership qualities with the proven ability to build, motivate, and develop high-performing teams. Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels, from the engineering bench to the Board of Directors.
Business Acumen
Strong financial literacy, including experience with budget management, resource planning, and project portfolio analysis. Understands the commercial and market drivers of the MedTech industry.
Location
Must be willing and able to work on-site at the company’s headquarters in Irvine, CA.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining the best talent in the industry and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
A substantial equity package (stock options or RSUs) to ensure you share in the long-term success you help create.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company holidays.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continuing education, professional certifications, and attendance at key industry conferences.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for exceptional candidates moving to the Irvine area.
Work Environment
A state-of-the-art facility with a collaborative and innovative work culture dedicated to making a difference.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. To be considered for this career-defining opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and leadership philosophy. We are seeking a leader who is not only technically proficient but also passionate about improving patient care through technology.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply directly through the JRG Partners’ Life Sciences & Healthcare Practice portal. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can lead the next wave of innovation in medical technology.
