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# SVP, Global R&D with a Medical Device Manufacturer – Irvine, CA


Role Overview for SVP, Global R&D with a Medical Device Manufacturer – Irvine, CA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a globally recognized leader in the medical device industry in their search for a transformative Senior Vice President (SVP) of Global Research & Development. Based in the vibrant med-tech hub of Irvine, California, this executive will serve as a pivotal member of the senior leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. Our client is renowned for its commitment to innovation, quality, and improving patient outcomes through groundbreaking technology. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of healthcare by leading a world-class R&D organization dedicated to developing next-generation medical devices.
The SVP, Global R&D will be the chief architect of the company’s innovation engine, responsible for the strategic direction, execution, and leadership of all research and development activities across the globe. This role demands a visionary leader with a profound understanding of the medical device landscape, a passion for technological advancement, and a proven track record of bringing complex products from concept to successful commercialization.
You will inherit a talented, multi-disciplinary team and be tasked with fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and relentless execution. The ideal candidate will combine deep technical expertise with exceptional business acumen, driving a product pipeline that not only meets current market needs but also anticipates the future of patient care. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s long-term growth, competitive positioning, and its mission to save and improve lives.
Key Responsibilities of SVP, Global R&D with a Medical Device Manufacturer – Irvine, CA
The SVP, Global R&D will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, encompassing strategic planning, team leadership, and flawless execution of the product development lifecycle. Success in this role requires a hands-on yet strategic approach to leading a complex global function.
Strategic Leadership and Vision
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive global R&D strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives and long-range plans. Create and maintain a multi-year technology and product roadmap that secures the company’s position as an industry leader.
Product Pipeline and Portfolio Management
Direct the entire product development lifecycle for all product lines, from initial ideation, concept development, and feasibility studies to design, verification, validation, and seamless transfer to manufacturing. Ensure a balanced portfolio of projects, including next-generation platforms and incremental product enhancements.
Global Team Development and Leadership
Lead, mentor, and inspire a large, multi-site organization of engineers, scientists, project managers, and technicians. Foster a dynamic, inclusive, and high-performance culture that encourages innovation, risk-taking, and continuous learning. Implement robust talent development and succession planning programs.
Financial and Resource Management
Assume full P&L responsibility for the global R&D budget. Develop and manage annual operating plans and budgets, ensuring the strategic and efficient allocation of capital and human resources to maximize return on investment and achieve project milestones.
Regulatory and Quality Compliance
Uphold the highest standards of quality and compliance. Ensure that all R&D activities, processes, and documentation strictly adhere to global regulatory requirements, including FDA 21 CFR 820, ISO 13485, and other international standards. Collaborate closely with the RA/QA leadership to navigate regulatory submissions and approvals.
Cross-Functional Executive Collaboration
Serve as a key strategic partner to the executive leadership team. Collaborate effectively with Marketing, Sales, Clinical Affairs, Operations, and other functions to ensure cohesive product strategies, successful product launches, and sustained market adoption.
Intellectual Property Strategy
Oversee the company’s intellectual property portfolio. Drive a proactive IP strategy to protect innovations, identify and assess new inventions, manage patent filings, and maintain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
Technology Scouting and Innovation
Champion a culture of external awareness and forward-thinking innovation. Stay at the forefront of emerging technologies, materials science, clinical trends, and competitive developments. Identify and champion opportunities for technological disruption and advancement.
External Relationship Management
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), physicians, academic institutions, and strategic business partners. Leverage these external networks to gather market insights, inform product requirements, and identify potential collaboration or acquisition opportunities.
Requirements for the SVP, Global R&D with a Medical Device Manufacturer – Irvine, CA
The successful candidate will be a seasoned executive with a distinguished career in medical device innovation. This role requires a unique blend of technical depth, strategic leadership, and commercial mindset.
Educational Background
An advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline is required. An MBA or advanced management training is highly desirable.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 20 years of progressive experience within the medical device industry, with at least 10 years in a senior R&D leadership capacity (e.g., Vice President or equivalent) overseeing large, global teams.
Technical and Product Expertise
A demonstrated track record of successfully leading the development and commercialization of complex Class II and/or Class III medical devices. Experience in the cardiovascular, structural heart, or interventional radiology space is strongly preferred.
Leadership and Management Skills
Proven ability to build, lead, and motivate high-performing, multi-disciplinary R&D teams across multiple geographic locations. A history of attracting and retaining top-tier talent.
Regulatory and Quality Acumen
Deep expertise in navigating the complex global regulatory landscape, including FDA and international medical device regulations. In-depth knowledge of Design Controls, Risk Management (ISO 14971), and Quality Management Systems (QMS).
Business and Financial Acumen
Strong understanding of business fundamentals, including P&L management, budget development, and financial modeling. Ability to translate technical and R&D initiatives into a compelling business case.
Strategic and Innovative Mindset
A visionary thinker with the ability to formulate and execute long-term strategies. A passion for innovation and a history of challenging the status quo to drive breakthrough results.
Communication Skills
Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to articulate a clear vision and influence stakeholders at all levels, from the Board of Directors to individual engineers.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top executive talent by offering a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation and benefits package. This includes:

Highly competitive executive base salary.
Significant annual performance-based bonus potential.
Meaningful long-term incentive plan (stock options, RSUs, or equivalent equity participation).
Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Generous 401(k) retirement plan with a substantial company match.
Executive-level paid time off (PTO), sick leave, and paid company holidays.
A comprehensive relocation assistance package for qualified candidates.
Support for professional development, including executive coaching and attendance at key industry conferences.
An opportunity to work within a dynamic, mission-driven culture with a passionate leadership team.

How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical executive search. We are seeking a truly exceptional leader to fill this role and drive the future of medical innovation. If you are a visionary R&D executive with the experience and passion to lead a world-class organization, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications. For more information or to explore other executive opportunities within our specialized practice areas, please visit our medical device and life sciences executive search practice page.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Our client is an equal opportunity employer.