Role Overview for VP Orthopedic Devices Product Development – Warsaw, IN
JRG Partners is proud to announce an exclusive executive search for a transformative Vice President of Orthopedic Devices Product Development on behalf of our client, a pioneering leader in the medical technology sector. This pivotal role is based in Warsaw, Indiana, the undisputed “Orthopedic Capital of the World,” placing you at the very heart of industry innovation and talent. We are seeking a visionary and strategic leader to helm the entire product development lifecycle, from conceptualization to global commercialization. This is a career-defining opportunity to shape the future of orthopedic medicine, drive technological advancements, and build a legacy of products that significantly improve patient outcomes.
The successful candidate will be a seasoned executive with a profound understanding of the orthopedic device market, including joint reconstruction, spine, trauma, and sports medicine. You will be responsible for setting the strategic direction of the R&D organization, fostering a culture of relentless innovation, and ensuring the timely delivery of a robust and profitable product pipeline. You will command a multidisciplinary team of world-class engineers, scientists, and project managers, providing the mentorship and resources necessary to solve complex technical challenges. Your leadership will be critical in navigating the intricate regulatory landscape, managing intellectual property, and collaborating with key opinion leaders (KOLs) and cross-functional partners to ensure our products not only meet but exceed the demands of a dynamic global market. This role requires a unique blend of technical mastery, business acumen, and inspirational leadership to steer the company’s most critical growth engine.
Key Responsibilities of VP Orthopedic Devices Product Development – Warsaw, IN
As the Vice President of Product Development, you will be entrusted with the ultimate responsibility for the company’s innovation engine. Your duties will be broad and impactful, encompassing strategic, operational, and leadership functions.
Strategic Product Roadmap & Vision
Develop and execute a multi-year product development strategy that aligns with corporate objectives, market trends, and unmet clinical needs. Conduct comprehensive market analysis, competitive intelligence, and technology assessments to identify and prioritize new product opportunities and portfolio enhancements.
R&D Leadership & Execution
Direct all aspects of research, design, and development for new orthopedic devices and instrumentation. Oversee the entire product lifecycle, including ideation, feasibility studies, design, verification, validation, and transfer to manufacturing. Ensure adherence to rigorous design control processes (21 CFR 820.30).
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing team of engineers, designers, and technical staff. Foster a collaborative, innovative, and accountable culture. Implement best practices for talent acquisition, performance management, and professional development to build a world-class R&D organization.
Budget & Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual R&D budget, ensuring optimal allocation of financial and human resources to achieve strategic goals. Champion initiatives to improve efficiency, reduce development cycle times, and maximize return on investment.
Regulatory & Quality Assurance Partnership
Serve as the primary R&D liaison with Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance. Ensure all product development activities and documentation comply with global regulatory standards, including FDA QSR, ISO 13485, and EU MDR. Guide the team through complex FDA regulatory pathways, including 510(k) and PMA submissions.
Intellectual Property Management
Drive the company’s IP strategy by working closely with legal counsel to identify patentable inventions, file applications, and manage the existing patent portfolio to create a sustainable competitive advantage.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Build strong, collaborative relationships with leaders in Marketing, Sales, Clinical Affairs, Operations, and Finance. Ensure seamless communication and alignment from product concept through to commercial launch and post-market surveillance.
External Relationship Management
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key opinion leaders (KOLs), surgeons, academic institutions, and technology partners to gather clinical insights, validate product designs, and stay at the forefront of medical innovation.
Requirements for the VP Orthopedic Devices Product Development – Warsaw, IN
This senior executive role demands a proven track record of success in leading product development within the orthopedic medical device industry. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and attributes:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline is required. An advanced degree (MS, PhD, or MBA) is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in medical device product development, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership capacity (Director, Senior Director, or VP level) directly managing R&D teams.
Orthopedic Expertise
Deep and extensive experience within the orthopedic sector is mandatory. Demonstrable success in developing and commercializing products in areas such as large joint reconstruction (hip, knee), spine, trauma, extremities, or sports medicine is essential.
Technical Acumen
Expert-level knowledge of all phases of the product development lifecycle, including design controls, risk management (ISO 14971), biocompatibility, and sterilization. Proficiency with CAD software, FEA, and other engineering tools.
Regulatory & Quality Knowledge
In-depth understanding of global medical device regulations, including FDA 21 CFR 820, ISO 13485, and EU MDR. Proven experience successfully guiding products through regulatory submission and approval processes.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. A demonstrated ability to inspire teams, manage conflict, and drive performance in a fast-paced, matrixed environment. Proven experience in building and scaling R&D organizations.
Business Acumen
Strong financial and business acumen, with experience in budget management, strategic planning, and portfolio analysis. Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear business propositions.
Location
Ability to work on-site in Warsaw, IN. A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
Performance-Based Incentives
A lucrative annual bonus program and long-term incentives (equity/stock options) tied to individual and company performance.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents. Includes access to wellness programs, HSAs, and FSAs.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive, executive-level relocation package to facilitate a smooth transition to the Warsaw, Indiana area.
Paid Time Off
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
A significant budget for continuous learning, including executive coaching, industry conferences, and advanced certifications.
Additional Perks
Life insurance, disability coverage, and other benefits designed to provide financial security and peace of mind.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical executive search. We are seeking candidates who are not just looking for a new job, but for a defining career opportunity to lead at the highest level within the orthopedic industry. If you are a visionary leader with the experience and drive to lead a world-class product development organization, we invite you to begin a confidential discussion with us.
To be considered for this position, please do not contact the client directly. Interested and qualified candidates should submit your application through our Medical Device & Diagnostics Executive Search portal. Your resume and inquiry will be handled with the utmost discretion and confidentiality. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications and discussing how you can make a lasting impact.
