Head of R&D (SmartBike Systems)

TL;DR

Head of R&D (SmartBike Systems): Coordinate global R&D teams across China, Germany, Slovenia, Spain for full eBike systems, drive units, batteries, HMI/accessories, and digital platforms with an accent on systems engineering, cross-domain integration, and regulatory compliance. Focus on building benchmark R&D organization, overseeing end-to-end development from concept to SOP, and driving process excellence with robust validation and IP management.

Location: Palencia, Spain (onsite). Development teams in multiple European locations including Spain (Palencia, Valencia), Germany, Slovenia; coordination with China production.

Company

Leading international automotive supplier with €11.7B sales, 68,000 employees across 28 countries, focusing on e-mobility, powertrain, and efficient drive systems.

What you will do

• Analyze and optimize R&D organization, processes, and toolchain to build benchmark department for eBike drive systems and digital ecosystem.
• Set R&D targets with Product Management, lead functional and product team leaders, and ensure development success across all product lines.
• Oversee end-to-end development from concept to SOP, implementing Systems Engineering, APQP, PPAP, and cross-domain integration (mechanics, electronics, embedded SW, cloud).
• Own R&D budget, strategy, portfolio, roadmaps; run reviews and health checks; manage supplier co-development mainly in Asia.
• Act as senior technical counterpart for OEMs, ensure regulatory compliance, quality gates, IP generation, and rapid problem-solving for claims.
• Build achiever culture, promote ownership, and align with production facilities for industrialization and ramp-up.

Requirements

• >10 years experience in bicycle and automotive industries; international multi-site leadership.
• Expertise in electronics & mechatronics for e-drives: e-machine design/integration, power electronics/inverter, embedded control, sensors, BMS, thermal management, NVH.
• Strong skills in strategy, innovation, design, engineering, development, process excellence.
• Fluent in English (Spanish optional).

Culture & Benefits

• Collaborative environment with exciting assignments and ongoing personal & career development opportunities.
• Inclusive culture welcoming diverse backgrounds, disabilities, genders, and neurodivergent people.
• Work with global teams on trend-setting technologies for future mobility.

Hiring process

• Online application followed by screening call and personal interview(s).