Innovation Director - R&D

Established in 1986, North Star Imaging, Inc. is the leading domestic manufacturer of turn-key 2D Digital X-ray and 3D X-ray Computed Tomography systems for the Industrial Nondestructive Testing industry. As demand continues to increase both nationally and internationally, NSI now operates in six offices across the globe; Minnesota, California, Massachusetts, Florida, the United Kingdom and China.

Companies throughout the world rely on NSIs expertise and equipment to create high quality, efficient and profitable products. Become a key player to our growing success and have the opportunity to excel in a high-tech and advancing industry.

As the North Star Imaging (NSI) Innovation Director, you'll have the opportunity to be on the forefront of driving major transformation and lead all aspects of customer backed innovation for the NSI business

What you'll do:

• Lead the NSI research and development group including; Product Management, Software Development, and Engineering teams
• Create and cascade a strategic plan that is aligned with the overall business objectives
• Share your passion for staying on top of R&D trends, experimenting with and learning new technologies, participating in internal and external product/software development/engineering communities, and mentoring members of the teams
• Collaborate with managers to deliver robust technical solutions that drive powerful experiences that move the needle on innovative ideas and products

Primary Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• Provide technical insights and ensure there is an effective link between the customer/business and product development. Ensure that products are introduced, designed, and re-designed to meet the organizations objectives
• Propose initiatives for critical projects and works with managers to ensure deadlines, quality, and cost objectives are met. Ensures all innovation activities are in accordance with organizational standards

Leadership:

• Will manage and develop product managers, software developers, engineers, and people leaders
• Coach and mentor associates with a goal of developing and retaining talent at NSI
• Oversee function-wide budget for the R&D organization and ensures compliance with all regulatory standards and audits
• Identify training and development needs for direct reports and implement appropriate programs that will broaden knowledge base for team members

Execution:

• Monitor new/alternative technological trends and developments and utilizes resources and tools to implement changes that will strengthen the organization as an industry leader
• Manage and sequence delivery of business intent, build business requirements and execute against product strategy
• Oversee multiple projects and programs concurrently

Partnership:

• Strategize with management team to identify organization needs and implements appropriate research and projects
• Team up with world-class professionals to develop and test strategies

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will have the following:

• Conceptual thinking skills complemented by a strong quantitative orientation
• Strong business judgement, leadership, and integrity
• Tenacious decision maker, able to bring a healthy, aggressive, yet responsible approach to business
• Solid people leadership experience
• Ability to build and leverage the capabilities of a high-performing team, as well as business partners across the business
• Foster innovation, drive critical decisions, hold business partners accountable, and be able to consistently deliver results
• Strong executive communication skills
• Strategic influencing skills and the ability to drive collaboration through teams

Requirements:

• Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related development field
• 12 years experience
• 10% travel, both domestic and international

NSIs benefit package is designed to help you live your best life:

• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• 401(k) with generous company match
• Paid vacation, sick time and holidays
• Paid Parental Leave program
• Educational assistance available
• And more!

NSI is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues' unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential.

As an equal employment opportunity employer, NSI is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

All of your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues' unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential.

As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.