We are looking for a Development Manager – R&D to lead the creation, development, and validation of innovative product concepts for next-generation solutions.

This role acts as a bridge between R&D, marketing, production, and customers, ensuring concepts are feasible, competitive, and aligned with future market demands.

A key focus of this role is plastic component design, particularly within automotive interior systems such as Door Trims and Instrument Panels (IP).

Key Responsibilities

• Lead concept development from idea stage to project initiation

• Analyze market trends, customer needs, and emerging technologies

• Facilitate cross-functional workshops for idea generation

• Develop and present product concepts, prototypes, and business cases

• Ensure solutions are technically feasible, cost-efficient, and aligned with strategy

• Collaborate with R&D, production, procurement, and suppliers

• Conduct risk assessments and feasibility evaluations

• Prepare and present decision-making materials to management

• Act as an innovation ambassador and technical sales support

• Build and maintain customer and stakeholder relationships

• Drive concept studies, simulations, and prototype development

• Ensure alignment with quality, cost, sustainability, and time-to-market goals

• Guide and support CAD designers and design engineers

• Collaborate closely with CAE engineers to understand requirements and interpret simulation results

Technical Requirements

• Strong expertise in plastic component design and injection molding

• Experience with Door Trims, Instrument Panels (IP), or similar interior components

• Ability to interpret simulation results related to:

  • Strength and durability

  • Fatigue

  • NVH (noise and vibration)

  • Rheology / Moldflow analysis

• Strong understanding of CAD design processes and workflows

• Ability to align design, simulation, and manufacturing requirements

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Engineering or related technical field

• 5–10 years of experience in product development / automotive engineering

• Proven experience in innovation and concept development leadership

• Strong understanding of project management and product lifecycle

• Excellent communication skills in English (Swedish is a plus)

Leadership & Behaviors

• Strong leadership with ability to inspire and develop teams

• High level of drive, ownership, and accountability

• Confident and able to challenge ideas and stand your ground

• Not limited by rigid thinking—open to new possibilities and innovation

• Strong communication and influencing skills

• Proactive, self-driven, and results-oriented

• High level of integrity and reliability

Key Competencies

• Innovative and strategic mindset

• Ability to combine technology, design, and business perspectives

• Strong ability to lead cross-functional collaboration

• Structured and analytical approach