Director, R&D – Digital Transformation
Core
Define and execute digital transformation strategy for the North American R&D organization, building capabilities to deploy predictive models, AI tools, and digital twins that accelerate innovation and reduce physical iteration.
Role type
Director, R&D Digital Transformation (Strategy & Org Design)
Builds
Centralized Digital R&D Hub, predictive models, AI-enabled tools, advanced data architectures, and digital twin capabilities
Domain
Food & Beverage / Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) / Data Science / Manufacturing
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | infrastructure
Required skills
Digital transformation strategy, organizational design, workforce planning, machine learning, generative AI, computational modeling, data architecture (data lakes/mesh/MLOps), R&D enterprise systems (PLM/ELN/LIMS), cross-functional stakeholder management
Preferred skills
Food science, product development, chemical/mechanical engineering, packaging development
Technologies
PLM, ELN, LIMS, MLOps, data lakes, data mesh, generative AI, digital twins
Responsibilities
Define phased strategic roadmap for digital transformation, design target-state organizational structure and hiring plans, integrate legacy systems into cohesive data platform, lead deployment of simulation and ML models, operationalize Hub-and-Spoke engagement model, recruit and develop multidisciplinary talent
Seniority
Director, senior leadership with direct reports