Director, Bourns Advanced Research, Development & Test Lab

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute the lab’s strategic roadmap in alignment with corporate growth objectives and divisional needs.
• Identify and pursue “white-space” opportunities through innovation, including new technologies and product platforms not currently addressed by existing divisions.
• Serve as a thought partner to product line and divisional leaders on disruptive technologies and innovation.
• Ensure the Lab’s focus remains relevant and strategically sound.
• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies, materials, and processes with transformative potential.
• Lead early-stage prototyping, feasibility studies, and proof-of-concept development.
• Collaborate with internal business units to transition successful concepts into product development pipelines using the traditional technology readiness and maturation cycle.
• Build and lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technologists.
• Foster a culture of creativity, experimentation, and rapid iteration.
• Manage lab operations, budgets, and external partnerships.
• Create a learning environment for interns, recent graduates, and high-potential employees through mentorship and exposure to company-wide technologies.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, adaptability, and resilience in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment.
• Foster relationships with universities, startups, research institutions, and industry consortia.
• Represent the company at conferences, technical forums, and innovation summits.
• Develop and implement departmental processes, KPIs and reporting framework to drive optimal usage of human and capital resources.
• Present findings and strategic recommendations to executive leadership.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (PhD or MS) in Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of technology trends in electronic components and sensors.
• Experience managing cross-functional teams and complex technical programs.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and strategic thinking skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in or with corporate innovation labs, incubators, or venture arms.
• Familiarity with IP strategy, technology scouting, and open innovation models.
• Background in both hardware and software development environments.

Preferred Attributes

• Visionary thinking with the ability to translate strategy into actionable innovation.
• Demonstrated success in leading change and navigating organizational transformation.
• Familiarity with regulatory standards and quality systems.