Role Overview for VP, Research & Development with a MedTech Company – Irvine, CA
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to identify a visionary and transformative Vice President of Research & Development for a pioneering medical technology company based in the heart of Irvine, California. Our client is a market leader, renowned for developing life-changing medical devices that significantly improve patient outcomes and redefine standards of care. With a robust portfolio of successful products and a deep pipeline of next-generation technologies, they are poised for exponential growth. This is a rare opportunity to join a dynamic executive team and steer the engine of innovation for a company at the forefront of the MedTech revolution.
As the Vice President of Research & Development, you will be the strategic architect of the company’s entire innovation and product development roadmap. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, you will have complete ownership of the R&D function, from initial concept and feasibility studies through to design, development, verification, validation, and regulatory submission. You will be responsible for cultivating a world-class R&D organization, fostering a culture of creativity, scientific rigor, and relentless execution.
Your leadership will be paramount in translating complex clinical needs into commercially successful products that meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficacy. This role demands a unique blend of deep technical expertise, strategic business acumen, and inspirational leadership. You will not only manage a team of brilliant engineers and scientists but also serve as a key voice in the company’s long-term strategic planning, M&A activities, and technology scouting efforts. If you are a proven R&D leader with a passion for medical innovation and a track record of bringing groundbreaking products to market, we invite you to explore this career-defining opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Research & Development with a MedTech Company – Irvine, CA
The VP of R&D will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, central to the company’s continued success and market leadership. Success in this role will be measured by the successful launch of innovative products, the strength of the R&D pipeline, and the development of a high-performing, agile team.
Strategic and Technical Leadership
- Develop and execute a comprehensive R&D strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives, market trends, and long-term growth ambitions.
- Champion a culture of innovation, encouraging creative thinking, calculated risk-taking, and continuous improvement across the R&D organization.
- Serve as the top technical authority within the company, providing guidance on complex engineering challenges, technology selection, and architectural decisions.
- Conduct technology surveillance and landscape analysis to identify emerging trends, disruptive technologies, and potential acquisition targets that can enhance the company’s product portfolio.
Product Pipeline and Project Management
- Oversee the entire product development lifecycle (PDLC) for all new products and product enhancements, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
- Implement and refine best-in-class project management methodologies and design control processes to ensure efficiency, predictability, and compliance.
- Manage the R&D project portfolio, prioritizing initiatives based on strategic importance, resource availability, and potential return on investment.
- Lead cross-functional stage-gate reviews, making critical go/no-go decisions and ensuring alignment with stakeholders from Marketing, Clinical, Regulatory, and Operations.
Team Development and Mentorship
- Recruit, train, mentor, and lead a world-class, multi-disciplinary team of engineers, scientists, and technical staff.
- Establish clear goals, performance metrics, and development plans for the R&D team, fostering professional growth and building a robust leadership pipeline.
- Promote a collaborative and inclusive environment that empowers team members and drives high levels of engagement and accountability.
Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance
- Ensure all R&D activities and documentation rigorously adhere to global regulatory standards, including FDA 21 CFR 820, ISO 13485, and other relevant international requirements.
- Partner closely with the Quality and Regulatory Affairs teams to develop submission strategies, support regulatory filings (510(k), PMA), and respond to agency inquiries.
- Champion a ‘quality-first’ mindset throughout the development process, ensuring robust design verification and validation activities are meticulously planned and executed in compliance with the FDA’s Quality System (QS) regulation.
Intellectual Property and Budget Management
- Drive the company’s intellectual property strategy, working with legal counsel to identify patentable inventions, file applications, and protect the company’s technological innovations.
- Develop and manage the annual R&D budget, ensuring optimal allocation of financial and human resources to achieve strategic objectives.
- Track and report on key R&D metrics and financial performance to the executive team and board of directors.
Requirements for the VP, Research & Development with a MedTech Company – Irvine, CA
The ideal candidate will be a seasoned and accomplished R&D leader with a deep understanding of the medical device industry and a proven history of technical and commercial success.
Education
An advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline is required. An MBA is a plus.
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in medical device research and development, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., Director, Senior Director, or VP) managing large, multi-disciplinary teams.
Industry Expertise
Extensive experience in a regulated Class II or Class III medical device environment is mandatory. Experience with devices involving complex hardware, software, and consumables is highly preferred.
Technical Acumen
Demonstrated expertise across the full product development lifecycle, from concept to commercialization. Strong command of design controls, risk management (ISO 14971), and statistical methods.
Regulatory Success
A proven track record of successfully leading teams through the regulatory submission process, with direct experience in 510(k) and/or PMA submissions.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. The ability to inspire confidence, lead through influence, and build consensus across all levels of the organization.
Strategic Mindset
Strong strategic and analytical thinking skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information, identify key business drivers, and make sound, data-driven decisions.
Location
Must be able to work on-site at the company’s headquarters in Irvine, CA.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier executive talent. This includes:
- Highly competitive base salary and an aggressive annual executive bonus plan tied to personal and company performance.
- A significant equity stake in the company (stock options or RSUs), providing a substantial opportunity for wealth creation.
- Comprehensive, premium health benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match.
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), sick leave, and paid company holidays to support a healthy work-life balance.
- A comprehensive relocation assistance package for qualified candidates and their families.
- A professional development budget for conferences, workshops, and continuing education to keep you at the forefront of your field.
- Access to a modern, state-of-the-art R&D facility and a vibrant, collaborative, and mission-driven company culture.
How to Apply
This is a confidential search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. To be considered for this pivotal leadership role, please submit your resume and a detailed cover letter outlining your qualifications and your vision for leading a high-impact R&D organization. We are committed to a thorough and confidential review process. Qualified candidates will be contacted promptly for an initial discussion. If this role isn’t the perfect fit, we encourage you to connect with our team and consider exploring other opportunities within our Life Sciences and Healthcare practice. We look forward to learning more about your accomplishments and career aspirations.
