Director Of R&D Operations (SaaS)

TL;DR

Director of R&D Operations (SaaS): Orchestrating the intersection of product, engineering, and design strategy to optimize delivery and business alignment with an accent on portfolio management, operational efficiency, and cross-functional leadership. Focus on scaling AI capabilities and driving high-impact R&D outcomes through data-driven planning and rigorous performance tracking.

Location: Must be based in or able to work from Tallinn, Estonia (Hybrid)

Company

hirify.global is a leading CRM platform designed to help over 100,000 small and medium-sized businesses grow through customer-driven, AI-enhanced software solutions.

What you will do

• Evolve the R&D portfolio management framework to align with long-term business strategy.
• Optimize operational workflows across product, engineering, and design to improve delivery speed and quality.
• Manage annual/quarterly planning processes and ensure ambitious, measurable OKR alignment.
• Build data-driven tools to track progress, surface risks, and ensure ROI visibility.
• Oversee the R&D budget and resource allocation, balancing AI development with platform reliability.
• Lead and mentor the R&D operations team while partnering with senior leadership including the CPTO.

Requirements

• Senior experience in R&D, Product, or Engineering Operations within a product-led SaaS environment.
• Proven ability to operate at the Director level and partner effectively with C-level stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of modern software development life cycles and AI-driven product strategy.
• Demonstrated success in linking R&D execution to tangible business and revenue outcomes.
• Expertise in navigating ambiguity, rapid scaling, and managing complex stakeholder relationships.
• Must be available for a hybrid work model in Tallinn, Estonia.

Nice to have

• Direct experience supporting a CPTO, CTO, or CPO.
• Background in scaling AI-focused operating models.
• Experience working within globally distributed R&D organizations.

Culture & Benefits

• People-first culture that values authenticity and inclusive collaboration across a global team.
• 28 days of paid leave plus additional well-being days.
• Flexible working hours and comprehensive wellness perks.
• Performance-based bonuses and focus on professional growth via mentorship and coaching.
• Supportive environment that includes compassionate and parental leave.