R&D Manager

At Verhaert On-Site Consulting, we are looking for an experienced Freelance R&D Manager to support a leading manufacturing company active in innovative solutions for the heating, sanitary and building sectors. This role combines technical product development, project management and team leadership . You will play a key role in driving innovation projects from concept to implementation while coordinating an experienced R&D team and collaborating closely with stakeholders across the organization. Your Responsibilities Lead the development of new products and the improvement of existing product lines. Translate product and concept briefings into concrete development projects. Define project scope, objectives and technical requirements. Develop and manage detailed project plans. Ensure technical feasibility throughout project execution. Coordinate internal teams and external partners. Manage project timelines, costs, scope and risks. Escalate project issues and propose mitigation plans. Create and maintain project documentation. Drive projects to successful completion within scope, budget and timing. Provide daily leadership and coaching to the R&D team. Act as a key point of contact for product development expertise within the organization. Required Experience Master's degree in Engineering or equivalent through relevant experience. Minimum 5 years of experience in Innovation, Product Development or R&D environments. Proven experience leading multidisciplinary development projects. Experience managing and coaching technical teams. Strong project management skills. Experience with Autodesk Inventor. Ability to transform innovative ideas into industrialized products and processes. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills. Proactive, pragmatic and entrepreneurial mindset. Strong Assets Experience within manufacturing environments. Knowledge of extrusion processes. Experience with plastic injection molding. Familiarity with FMEA methodologies. Experience with process optimization tools or enterprise software solutions. Soft Skills Strong leadership capabilities. Excellent organizational skills. Hands-on approach. Ability to operate in fast-changing environments. Strong attention to detail. Results-oriented mindset. Collaborative and constructive communication style. Assignment Details Freelance assignment Start: ASAP Innovation and product development environment Combination of project management, technical leadership and people management Long-term impact on product strategy and development