R&D and Innovation Manager

FARPLAS OTOMOTİV A.Ş

Farplas is one of the leading automotive suppliers globally, providing parts, equipment, and services used in vehicle production to many top automotive manufacturers, including Toyota, Renault, Hyundai, Ford, Tofaş-Fiat, and Togg, with a diverse product range. Utilizing advanced technology and high-quality production processes, Farplas delivers innovative and customized solutions for its customers. With state-of-the-art production facilities and automation systems, Farplas prioritizes quality and efficiency, aiming to strengthen its competitive edge through sustainability and an environmentally friendly approach. As a trusted solution partner, Farplas is committed to excellence across all its operations.

Would you want to make a difference on this journey, where we embrace the values of persistence, passion, people, purpose, progress and the planet?

What Does the R&D and Innovation Manager at Farplas?

• Contribute to the development of the innovation and industrial technology roadmap in line with the company’s strategic objectives and manage the projects under their responsibility.
• Monitor developments in automotive, mobility, and advanced manufacturing technologies to identify new technology and application opportunities that will strengthen the company’s manufacturing capabilities.
• Work closely with shop-floor, engineering, and operations teams to translate on-site needs, technical challenges, and improvement opportunities into innovation projects.
• Research and evaluate emerging technologies, smart automation solutions, digital manufacturing systems, and AI-enabled applications that can be implemented in manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with relevant functions to conduct feasibility studies, prototype development, and pilot implementation activities to assess the applicability of new technologies.
• Evaluate the technical and economic benefits of innovation projects, supporting the transfer and scaling of successful pilot applications across relevant operations and engineering teams.
• Strengthen collaboration in technology development and innovation among R&D, Product and Process Development, Manufacturing, Quality, Maintenance, Information Technology, and Operational Excellence teams.
• Contribute to the development of an innovation culture across the company by supporting the evaluation and development of innovative ideas originating from the shop floor and translating them into viable projects.
• Support the adoption of new technologies by developing partnerships with universities, research centers, technology startups, technology suppliers, and industry organizations.
• Identify opportunities for nationally and internationally funded projects in new manufacturing technologies and industrial innovation, working in coordination with relevant R&D and corporate functions.
• Manage the prioritization of innovation projects, budget and resource planning, implementation timelines, and performance indicators.
• Measure and report innovation outcomes to management in terms of technological advancements, manufacturing efficiency, quality, sustainability, and economic contribution.
• Define team objectives, support the development of technical competencies, and foster a working environment that promotes cross-functional collaboration.

What Are the Requirements for a R&D and Innovation Manager at Farplas?

• A degree in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electrical and Electronics, Industrial, Materials Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• At least 10 years of experience, preferably in the automotive industry or advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Strong experience in at least one of the following areas: manufacturing technologies, industrial innovation, technology development, or advanced manufacturing systems.
• Hands-on experience working closely with shop-floor teams and translating technical needs into innovative technology projects.
• Experience in evaluating emerging technologies, conducting feasibility studies, implementing pilot applications, and deploying technologies at an industrial scale.
• Knowledge of smart manufacturing, Industry 4.0, automation, digitalization, and industrial applications of artificial intelligence.
• Experience in cross-functional project management, technology partnerships, and stakeholder management.
• Strong strategic and analytical thinking skills, with the ability to identify technology opportunities and translate innovative ideas into viable projects.
• Experience in project prioritization, budget management, resource planning, and investment feasibility assessment.
• Leadership capabilities in team management, employee development, and fostering a culture of collaboration.
• Advanced proficiency in English and the ability to communicate effectively in an international business environment.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, planning, and results-oriented working skills.

What Does the Recruitment Process Look Like?

• Submit Your Application
• Competency-Based Interview
• Assessment Tools
• Reference Check
• Final Steps & Offer

You can explore all job and internship opportunities at Farplas via LinkedIn and Kariyer.net.

If you share our passion and values, we look forward to meeting you,