Director Applied R&D

UL Solutions•Northbrook, IL

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of R&D is a senior technical and business leader responsible for shaping and growing UL Solutions’ applied research capability. This role leads multidisciplinary teams working across Fire Science, Batteries and Energy Storage, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Systems. This leader is both a deeply accomplished engineer and a practical business builder. They translate technical excellence into customer value and sustainable revenue. The role is charged with expanding the influence of R&D on company strategy, strengthening engagement with internal and external customers, and driving growth through contract R&D programs and new, high-value service development. The position sits at the intersection of technical rigor, market awareness, and business execution.

Requirements

Advanced degree in engineering or physical sciences (PhD preferred; MS with strong applied experience acceptable).
Deep technical expertise in at least one core discipline, with credibility across multiple engineering domains.
Demonstrated leadership experience managing and developing engineers and scientists in applied R&D or advanced engineering environments.
Proven track record of delivering complex R&D programs with measurable customer, technical, or commercial impact.
Experience working with industry, regulators, and standards bodies is strongly preferred.
Demonstrated success in business development, customer engagement, or commercialization of technical work.
Innovative problem solver who focuses on outcomes and practical solutions.
Technically accomplished engineer with sound judgment and intellectual curiosity.
Thought leader and outstanding communicator, effective with executives, customers, and technical peers.
Strategic thinker who understands markets, customers, and competitive dynamics.
Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to convert technical capability into revenue-generating offerings.

Responsibilities

Set and drive technical direction across multiple engineering and science disciplines.
Lead development of innovative, practical solutions to complex customer and industry problems.
Serve as a recognized technical authority and trusted advisor within UL Solutions and with customers, partners, and regulators.
Promote a culture of creativity, speed, disciplined experimentation, and strong engineering fundamentals.
Translate market trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies into clear R&D priorities.
Influence company direction by connecting technical capability to long-term growth opportunities.
Identify white-space opportunities where UL Solutions can lead through new methods, tools, or services.
Generate revenue through contract R&D programs with strategic customers.
Lead the creation and launch of differentiated, high-value technical services.
Partner closely with sales, marketing, and product teams to shape compelling customer value propositions.
Support strategic pursuits by providing technical leadership, credibility, and solution framing.
Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders, customers, regulators, research institutions, and industry partners.
Increase customer engagement with R&D through collaborative programs, joint development work, and advisory roles.
Represent UL Solutions in industry forums, technical committees, and standards organizations as appropriate.
Lead and develop high-performing teams of engineers, scientists, and technical specialists across multiple disciplines.
Create an environment that values technical rigor, curiosity, accountability, and continuous learning.
Actively mentor and coach technical staff, from early-career engineers to senior subject-matter experts.
Identify and develop future technical leaders, including succession planning for critical roles.
Align individual development plans with business needs and long-term organizational goals.