Director of R&D Operations (SaaS)

TL;DR

Director of R&D Operations (SaaS): Leading and evolving the portfolio management framework and operational workflows for Product, Engineering, and Design teams to drive high-impact outcomes with an accent on strategic alignment and execution scalability. Focus on data-driven decision-making, optimizing resource allocation between AI development and core platform reliability, and ensuring efficient cross-functional collaboration.

Location: Must be based in or able to commute to London (Hybrid role)

Company

hirify.global is a leading CRM platform designed for small and medium-sized businesses, driven by an AI-first vision and a customer-centric approach.

What you will do

• Evolve the R&D portfolio management framework to ensure alignment with long-term business strategy.
• Improve operational workflows across Product, Engineering, and Design to increase delivery speed and quality.
• Implement data-driven tools and dashboards to track progress and surface risks across workstreams.
• Manage the R&D budget in partnership with Finance and the CPTO.
• Lead quarterly and annual planning processes, ensuring OKRs are measurable and aligned with business goals.
• Lead and develop the R&D Operations team through hiring, coaching, and performance management.

Requirements

• Senior experience in R&D, Product, or Engineering Operations within a product-led SaaS environment.
• Proven ability to operate at a Director level and partner with C-level stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of modern software development, including AI-driven product development.
• Demonstrated experience linking R&D execution to revenue outcomes and business value.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Must have the right to work in the UK; no visa sponsorship or relocation assistance available.

Nice to have

• Experience scaling AI capabilities in an R&D organization.
• Previous experience supporting a CPTO, CTO, or CPO directly.
• Background in globally distributed R&D organizations.

Culture & Benefits

• People-first culture with an emphasis on authenticity, collaboration, and teamwork.
• Flexible working hours and well-being days.
• Performance-based bonuses and 28 days of paid leave.
• Generous leave policies including pawternal and compassionate leave.
• Commitment to an inclusive workplace with diverse perspectives.