R&D Strategic Planner

Qnity•Newark, DE

About The Position

The CMPT R&D Strategic Planner translates business and technology strategy into coordinated execution by managing strategic planning, portfolio governance, Stage Gate processes, executive reporting, and leadership operating rhythms. The role partners with marketing, R&D, product management, sales, finance, and business leadership to align customer and market priorities with technology roadmaps, investment decisions, and resource requirements. The Strategic Planner serves as an objective, analytical partner to CMPT R&D leadership. The role improves portfolio visibility, challenges assumptions, identifies gaps, and drives follow-through. It owns planning and governance processes and provides recommendations; final investment, prioritization, resource allocation, and Stage Gate decisions remain with designated leadership.

Requirements

Master's degree in Engineering, Science, Business, or a related field required.
At least 3 years of relevant experience required.
Semiconductor industry experience required.

Nice To Haves

5 or more years of relevant experience preferred.
CMP experience preferred.
PhD and/or MBA preferred.
Experience in strategic planning, portfolio management, product management, R&D operations, or business operations preferred.
Experience supporting executive decision-making, Stage Gate, portfolio reviews, and business case development preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and drive strategic plans that align business priorities, customer needs, technology roadmaps, and portfolio investments; monitor execution, identify gaps, and recommend actions to support leadership decisions.
Lead portfolio governance, prioritization, and performance reviews, balancing near-term customer opportunities with long-term technology investments and recommending actions to optimize portfolio value.
Assess business cases, investment needs, and resource trade-offs; provide scenario analysis and recommendations to maximize growth, returns, and organizational capacity.
Deliver concise, decision-oriented reporting on portfolio performance, business results, risks, opportunities, and required actions.
Support the Global CMP R&D Director through staff meeting planning, decision facilitation, action tracking, and execution of strategic initiatives.
Own and enhance the Stage Gate process, ensuring data-driven decisions, governance discipline, accountability, and execution readiness.
Establish portfolio and innovation metrics, track business outcomes, and drive continuous improvement through post-launch and post-project reviews.
Simplify planning, governance, and reporting processes through digital tools, automation, and change management to improve effectiveness and transparency.