VP, Research & Development - Advanced Surgery

Baxter International Inc.•Deerfield, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This role is responsible for leading Global Research & Development supporting a diverse, global product portfolio including hemostats, sealants, tissue products, microsurgery technologies, and adhesion prevention solutions representing approximately $1B in annual revenue. The scope of accountability includes the strategic planning and execution of exploratory research, innovation, applied research, new product development, and sustaining activities across the portfolio. The Vice President, R&D provides strong leadership and direction for a global organization of approximately 90 colleagues, fostering a high-performance, inclusive culture aligned with Baxter’s mission, vision, and values.

Requirements

Demonstrated ability to lead effectively within complex, matrixed organizations; influence and drive alignment across functions and levels without formal authority; and establish accountability through clear milestones, progress tracking, and course correction.
Proven success building and negotiating strong partnerships with internal stakeholders and external partners to solve complex problems, achieve shared objectives, and deliver measurable outcomes.
Strong executive presence with exceptional communication, interpersonal, and relationship‑building skills, paired with a deep understanding of business drivers including regulatory requirements, customer and patient needs, global market dynamics, financial performance, and product roadmaps.
15+ years of experience in product development and strategic business leadership, including managing global teams; experience in medical devices, biologics, or biotechnology strongly preferred.
Advanced degree in a scientific or engineering discipline required (biologics highly desirable), with willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

Nice To Haves

experience in medical devices, biologics, or biotechnology strongly preferred
biologics highly desirable

Responsibilities

Leading the development and execution of enterprise R&D strategy, product and platform roadmaps, and innovation agendas, informed by industry trends, emerging technologies and strong cross-functional partnerships.
Providing oversight for a global portfolio of high-impact products and programs, ensuring disciplined delivery across scope, budget, timelines, and the full product lifecycle from ideation through commercialization and continuous improvement.
Owning and managing the global R&D operating budget, ensuring strong financial governance, effective resource allocation, and minimal variance to plan and forecast.
Partnering with senior business leaders and cross‑functional stakeholders (Marketing, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory, etc.) to influence business strategy, support business development and licensing opportunities, and drive growth initiatives.
Building and sustaining a high‑performing R&D organization by developing critical capabilities, strengthening leadership pipelines, optimizing global resources, and driving talent development, performance management, and organizational effectiveness through change.

Benefits

medical and dental coverage that start on day one
insurance coverage for basic life, accident, short-term and long-term disability, and business travel accident insurance
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), with the ability to purchase company stock at a discount
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan (RSP), with options for employee contributions and company matching
Flexible Spending Accounts
educational assistance programs
paid holidays
paid time off ranging from 20 to 35 days based on length of service
family and medical leaves of absence
paid parental leave
commuting benefits
Employee Discount Program
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
childcare benefits