Head of Research & Development

FYUL • Charlotte, NC

2d

About The Position

The Head of R&D, a senior leadership role, is key to advancing technology across our internal Facilities Network. This position involves setting and executing strategic R&D initiatives, including developing new print-on-demand techniques and enabling new product launches, with a core focus on increasing cost efficiency and establishing FYUL as the industry leader for high-quality print and technological advancement. The role requires direct leadership of the R&D team and ensuring seamless cooperation with all other Go-To-Market teams.

Requirements

• Executive Experience: 10+ years of leadership in R&D or Operational Technology, with a proven track record of scaling innovations across a global facilities network.
• AI/ML and Automation Literacy: Hands-on experience deploying AI/ML use cases as well as automation.
• Strategic Financial Management: Proficiency in managing multi-million dollar CAPEX budgets and conducting ROI/NPV analyses for high-impact projects.
• Advanced Vendor Negotiation: Strong ability to negotiate complex hardware/software contracts and secure exclusive commercial terms or technology partnerships.
• Cross-Functional Orchestration: Skilled at acting as a bridge between Technology, Operations, and Product teams to align R&D with Go-To-Market goals.
• IP & Competitive Strategy: Experience developing proprietary technologies to establish a "technological moat" and long-term industry leadership.
• Technical Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field; an MBA is a plus.

Nice To Haves

• Print-on-Demand Expertise (Preferred): Deep technical knowledge of industrial print techniques (DTG, DTF, sublimation) and digital manufacturing workflows.
• Operational Excellence (Preferred): Expertise in Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma principles to drive cost efficiency and standardize performance metrics (KPIs) globally.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams within R&D, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in project coordination and management.
• Shape and execute the company’s long-term operational strategy, driving key business initiatives to enhance FYUL’s competitiveness.
• Strategic decision-making for high-impact projects that influence gross margin, revenue growth, and cost efficiencies.
• Represent Operations in cross-functional leadership discussions, aligning with Technology, Product Category Management, and other key departments to drive business objectives.
• Spearhead the identification, development, and deployment of new print-on-demand technologies, AI or ML use cases in operations, and advanced manufacturing techniques.
• Oversee key R&D-led projects, including the fleet-wide equipment upgrades, scaling of new techniques, AI-driven Quality Control initiatives, and other high-impact innovations.
• Drive expansion into new business avenues and product categories, leveraging R&D capabilities to unlock new revenue streams.
• Develop and manage strategic partnerships with equipment providers, partners, and other technology-driven supply chain partners with a focus on innovative solutions that would increase the company’s competitiveness and operational moat around the business.
• Negotiate with service providers to drive down CAPEX or operational costs as well as to secure the best possible commercial terms for both software and hardware products.
• Act as a key liaison between the internal teams, Operations, Product & Technology, and Category Management, to ensure seamless integration of new technologies and process improvements.
• Lead global standardization efforts, ensuring that FYUL’s fulfillment sites operate with uniform best practices, automation tools, and performance metrics.
• Establish and monitor KPIs related to product quality, customer satisfaction, production efficiency, and cost reduction.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and benefits: health, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401k with company match
• Free coffee and snacks
• Personal and professional development opportunities
• A fun and engaging position in a fast-paced environment
• A global, inclusive team that’s as supportive as it is ambitious and serious about getting things done
• An opportunity to work in a modern fulfillment facility
• Exciting team-building events and parties you’ll never forget!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive