Head of Innovation and Applied Research Tires (m/f/d) EXECUTIVE - REF86275S

As Head of Innovation and Applied Research Tires (m/f/diverse) you will lead the network of Experts and Principals in R&D to drive the technical competitiveness, outperformance and external positioning of Continental Tire.

• Lead, steer and coordinate “Innovation and Applied Research” with its Expert & Principal network in R&D to maximize the impact on technological competitiveness
• Ensure an efficient and effective Applied Research Steering for Continental Tire by involving internal and external competencies and capacities
• Drive the innovation culture in R&D and beyond to ensure a lively competition for the best ideas and a full pipeline for technology development and new product concepts
• Collaborate closely with the IP responsibility for Continental Tire to ensure freedom to design, build and sell all target technologies in our future products globally
• Ensure representation of Continental Tire technological positions and competence outside Continental in conferences, associations, universities and the press, in close collaboration with PR and aligned with relevant functions
• Operate an effective cooperation strategy with universities and technical institutions, make active use of participation in funded projects to grow the network towards leading innovators and to generate visibility to institutions, customers and the public

• Academic degree in engineering, natural science or similar, PhD is a plus
• Deep and broad background in tire technology, preferably in multiple business and technology fields
• Multiple years of leadership experience and competence, leading with vision, clear priorities and vitalizing networks 
• Personal drive for innovation, technology and competitive product performance 
• Multiple years of relevant professional experience, ideally including international and cross-organizational experience  
• Strong strategic competence, being able to form a self-propelling community
• Sound experience in collaborations with external parties (institutions, universities, customers, press)
• Fluent English language skills (written and spoken)

Applications from severely handicapped people are welcome.

We offer the following benefits:

• Out of tarif salary contract 
• 30 days of paid vacation per year
• Attractive career development opportunities
• We offer balanced working conditions by doing mobile work, working part-time, flexible working time as well as Sabbatical options
• Cross-Border mobile work options up to 40 days per year from other EU countries
• Company Pension plan
• Attractive employee benefits with discounts
• Diverse offers that support a better “work-family” balance (e.g. company childcare places and free emergency care for your children)
• Discounted offer for accessing sport facilities across Germany via Hansefit
• A highly diverse environment across our location
• A new canteen on site with a variety of lunch options

If this sounds like a perfect match for you and if you want to become the next supporter of our core values: Trust, for one another, passion to win and freedom to act - we are looking forward to receiving your application.

Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging are important to us and make our company strong and successful. We offer equal opportunities to everyone - regardless of age, gender, nationality, cultural background, disability, religion, ideology or sexual orientation.

Ready to drive with Continental? Take the first step and fill in the online application.

Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2024, Continental generated sales of €39.7 billion and currently employs around 190,000 people in 55 countries and markets.

With its premium portfolio in the car, truck, bus, two-wheel and specialty tire segment, the Tires group sector stands for innovative solutions in tire technology. Intelligent products and services related to tires and the promotion of sustainability complete the product portfolio. For specialist dealers and fleet management, Tires offers digital tire monitoring and tire management systems, in addition to other services, with the aim of keeping fleets mobile and increasing their efficiency. With its tires, Continental makes a significant contribution to safe, efficient and environmentally friendly mobility.