Director of R&D Operations (up to 9-month fixed-term contract)

We are seeking an experienced Director of R&D Operations to join Cognism on fixed-term contract (maternity cover). This is a hands-on senior role responsible for building, scaling and optimizing the operational infrastructure that enables our R&D organization to operate at peak efficiency. 

The successful candidate will establish best-in-class processes, implement robust tooling, foster cross-functional collaboration, and drive continuous improvement across our product and engineering teams. The role also provides light-touch technical program oversight to ensure that complex cross-functional initiatives are coordinated effectively, risks are managed proactively, and delivery remains aligned to strategic priorities. 

The Role:

The Director of R&D Operations serves as the operational backbone of our innovation engine. You will work closely with the product and engineering leaders to streamline workflows, remove friction points, and create an environment where cross-functional teams can move quickly without sacrificing quality or alignment. 

This role sits at the intersection of product strategy, technical excellence and operational efficiency. You will design and embed the systems, processes and governance that enable consistent delivery, predictable execution and strategic focus. Where required, you will also ensure appropriate program-level coordination across major initiatives, without shifting ownership away from accountable product and engineering teams.  

Key Responsibilities: 

Operational Strategy & Process Excellence 

• Design and implement scalable processes that support product development, research and engineering workflows without creating unnecessary bureaucracy.