Who Our Client Is:

Our client is a mission-driven healthcare organization focused on advancing innovation, improving patient outcomes, and strengthening communities. They believe that diversity fuels creativity, collaboration, and success. By fostering an inclusive workplace where every voice is valued, respected, and empowered, they create an environment where people can thrive both personally and professionally.

What Our Client Needs:

Our client is seeking an Executive Director, Product & Technology Development to shape and execute the company’s product, technology, and innovation roadmap. This senior leadership role will oversee end-to-end product lifecycle management—from concept through commercialization—while leading engineering and technology teams focused on delivering breakthrough solutions in the life sciences and technology space. The ideal candidate brings leadership, strategic vision, technical expertise, and a passion for innovation to ensure the product portfolio remains competitive, customer-focused, and future-ready. This role reports to the Chief Innovation Officer.

Who You Are:

You are a strategic, forward-thinking leader with deep experience in medical device product development and commercialization. You have a proven track record of guiding high-performing teams, successfully launching FDA-regulated devices, and driving innovation in a highly regulated environment. You are skilled at balancing big-picture vision with hands-on execution and excel at fostering collaboration across multiple functions.

What You’ll Do:

• Define and execute the product development strategy aligned with company goals and market needs.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to establish the product roadmap and innovation pipeline.
• Lead the development lifecycle of Class II/III medical devices, including concept, design, development, verification/validation, and transfer to manufacturing.
• Oversee design control processes in compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 820, ISO 13485, and other applicable regulations.
• Foster a culture of design excellence, risk management, and continuous improvement.
• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing multi-disciplinary team, including engineers, program managers, and scientists.
• Drive accountability and professional development through clear objectives and performance management.
• Partner with Regulatory Affairs, Quality Assurance, Clinical, Marketing, and Operations to align development activities with business and compliance requirements.
• Ensure effective design transfer and scale-up into manufacturing.
• Monitor emerging technologies, market trends, and the competitive landscape to identify innovation opportunities.
• Engage with KOLs, customers, and stakeholders to translate clinical needs into product solutions.

This position is office-based in the Nashville/Franklin, TN area and requires approximately 30% travel.

This role has supervisory responsibilities.

What You’ll Need:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, or related field (Master’s or PhD preferred).
• 12+ years of experience in medical device product development, including 5+ years in leadership roles.
• Demonstrated success in developing and launching Class II/III FDA-regulated medical devices and familiarity with EU MDR requirements.
• Experience managing global teams a plus.
• In-depth knowledge of design controls (ISO 13485), DHF, risk management, and usability engineering.
• PMP certification or structured project management experience highly desired.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strategic thinker with hands-on execution capabilities.

What They Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth
• Collaborative and innovative work environment
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life and AD&D Insurance
• Short- and Long-Term Disability Coverage
• 401(k) with generous company match
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) with company match
• Wellness Program and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Our client believes that diversity fuels innovation, strengthens teams, and drives success. They are committed to fostering a workplace where every individual—regardless of background—feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.

Discrimination or harassment of any kind is strictly prohibited. Our client does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. Their commitment extends beyond compliance; they actively cultivate an inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are welcomed, and every employee has an equal opportunity to contribute and succeed.