Senior Director – Research & Innovation

Role Overview We are seeking an experienced Senior Director of Research & Innovation to lead the development of advanced cybersecurity technologies and drive innovation initiatives from concept to market-ready solutions. The role will be responsible for shaping the innovation strategy, managing research programs, and leading multidisciplinary teams focused on emerging technologies. Key Responsibilities • Define and execute the innovation and research strategy. • Identify emerging technologies, industry trends, and new business opportunities. • Lead research, prototyping, and MVP development initiatives. • Manage a portfolio of innovation projects, balancing short and long-term objectives. • Collaborate with product, engineering, and business teams to bring innovations to market. • Build partnerships with universities, research institutions, startups, and technology partners. • Lead and mentor a high-performing team of researchers and innovation specialists. • Manage innovation budgets, resources, and funding initiatives. • Establish KPIs and reporting frameworks to measure innovation outcomes. Requirements • Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field (PhD preferred). • 12+ years of experience in Research, R&D, Innovation, or Technology Strategy. • Minimum 5 years in a leadership role. • Strong understanding of cybersecurity technologies, OT/ICS security, cryptography, and emerging technologies. • Proven experience leading research projects and transforming concepts into commercial solutions. • Strong stakeholder management, strategic planning, and team leadership skills. • Experience managing budgets, partnerships, and innovation portfolios. Preferred Background • Experience working within cybersecurity, deep-tech, or advanced technology environments. • Strong track record in applied research, product innovation, or technology commercialization

Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field (PhD preferred). 12+ years of experience in Research, R&D, Innovation, or Technology Strategy. Minimum 5 years in a leadership role. Strong understanding of cybersecurity technologies, OT/ICS security, cryptography, and emerging technologies. Proven experience leading research projects and transforming concepts into commercial solutions. Strong stakeholder management, strategic planning, and team leadership skills. Experience managing budgets, partnerships, and innovation portfolios.

Define and execute the innovation and research strategy. Identify emerging technologies, industry trends, and new business opportunities. Lead research, prototyping, and MVP development initiatives. Manage a portfolio of innovation projects, balancing short and long-term objectives. Collaborate with product, engineering, and business teams to bring innovations to market. Build partnerships with universities, research institutions, startups, and technology partners. Lead and mentor a high-performing team of researchers and innovation specialists. Manage innovation budgets, resources, and funding initiatives. Establish KPIs and reporting frameworks to measure innovation outcomes.