Role Overview for VP, R&D, Materials Science with an Electronics Co. – San Jose, CA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering leader in the global electronics industry, a company renowned for its commitment to innovation and cutting-edge technology. We are conducting an executive search for a visionary and transformative Vice President of Research & Development, Materials Science, to be based in their state-of-the-art R&D center in San Jose, California. This is a career-defining opportunity for a seasoned leader to shape the future of electronics by spearheading the discovery, development, and application of novel materials that will define the next generation of consumer and industrial products.
As the VP of R&D, Materials Science, you will be the strategic linchpin of the company’s long-term technology roadmap. You will command a world-class team of scientists, researchers, and engineers, fostering a dynamic culture of curiosity, scientific rigor, and breakthrough innovation. Your leadership will be instrumental in translating fundamental scientific discoveries into tangible technological advantages, ensuring the company maintains its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market. You will be responsible for the entire materials innovation lifecycle, from initial concept and fundamental research to process development, characterization, and successful integration into new product development pipelines.
This executive role requires a unique blend of deep scientific expertise, strategic business acumen, and inspirational leadership. You will not only guide internal research efforts but also build and maintain a robust ecosystem of external partnerships with leading academic institutions, national laboratories, and industry consortia. Success in this role means your team’s work will directly impact the performance, functionality, and sustainability of products used by millions worldwide. Staying ahead of the latest advancements in materials science is paramount to achieving this success.
Key Responsibilities of VP, R&D, Materials Science with an Electronics Co. – San Jose, CA
Strategic Vision and Leadership
Develop and execute a comprehensive, long-range materials science R&D strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives and product roadmap. Champion a compelling vision for materials innovation that inspires the team and secures executive buy-in.
Team Development and Mentorship
Lead, mentor, and grow a high-caliber, multidisciplinary team of Ph.D. scientists, engineers, and technicians. Foster an inclusive and collaborative environment that encourages intellectual curiosity, risk-taking, and continuous professional development. Implement robust performance management and talent development programs to build a pipeline of future leaders.
Research and Development Oversight
Direct all aspects of materials R&D, including the exploration of novel materials (polymers, composites, semiconductors, thin films, alloys, etc.), advanced characterization, and process technology development. Ensure projects are managed effectively, meeting technical milestones, timelines, and budgetary requirements.
Intellectual Property Portfolio Management
Drive the creation and strategic management of a robust intellectual property portfolio. Oversee the patent application process, conduct freedom-to-operate analyses, and develop a strategy that protects the company’s innovations and provides a competitive advantage.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as the primary materials science thought leader within the organization. Collaborate seamlessly with Product Development, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to ensure the smooth transition of new materials and processes from the laboratory to high-volume manufacturing. Provide expert guidance on material selection, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
Budget and Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual R&D budget, ensuring optimal allocation of capital, operational expenses, and human resources. Justify investments in new equipment, technologies, and talent to senior leadership.
External Technology Scouting and Partnerships
Establish and nurture strategic relationships with universities, research institutions, startups, and government labs to stay at the forefront of materials innovation. Identify and evaluate external technologies, licensing opportunities, and potential research collaborations to accelerate the company’s R&D roadmap.
Technical Communication and Reporting
Effectively communicate complex scientific concepts, project progress, and strategic recommendations to a diverse audience, including the executive leadership team, board members, and technical staff. Author and review technical papers, presentations, and internal reports.
Requirements for the VP, R&D, Materials Science with an Electronics Co. – San Jose, CA
Required Qualifications:
- A Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline is required.
- A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in industrial research and development, with a significant focus on materials for the electronics, semiconductor, or related high-tech industries.
- At least 10 years of experience in a senior leadership role, with a proven track record of managing and developing large, high-performing R&D teams.
- Demonstrated experience in setting strategic direction for a research organization and successfully executing complex, multi-year research programs.
- Deep technical expertise in one or more areas relevant to modern electronics, such as semiconductor materials, advanced polymers, thin-film deposition, nanotechnology, advanced metals, or composite materials.
- A strong and demonstrable track record of innovation, evidenced by a significant portfolio of patents, publications, and successful product commercializations.
- Exceptional business acumen with experience in budget management, resource allocation, and building business cases for technology investments.
- Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and align stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working directly on materials for consumer electronics, displays, sensors, or semiconductor packaging.
- Proven success in scaling materials and processes from lab-scale feasibility to high-volume manufacturing environments (NPI – New Product Introduction).
- Established network within the academic and industrial materials science community.
- Experience with advanced material modeling, simulation, and data-driven/machine learning approaches to materials discovery.
- Experience managing globally distributed research teams.
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:
Competitive Executive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary commensurate with experience and market standards.
Executive Bonus Program
A significant annual performance-based bonus plan tied to individual and company performance.
Long-Term Incentives
A substantial equity package (e.g., Restricted Stock Units or Stock Options) to ensure you share in the long-term success of the company.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents. Access to wellness programs, mental health resources, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Retirement Planning
A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for qualified candidates moving to the San Jose area.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for attending conferences, workshops, and executive education programs to foster continuous learning and professional growth.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The opportunity to work in a modern, well-equipped R&D facility with access to cutting-edge instrumentation and technology.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical executive search. We are seeking a visionary leader who is passionate about pushing the boundaries of what is possible in materials science. If you are a strategic thinker with a proven track record of leading R&D teams to deliver groundbreaking innovations, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. For more information about our expertise in this area, please visit our technology executive search practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can make a lasting impact on the future of technology.
