Stryker Corporation

Director, Research and Development

Stryker Corporation • $155K — $259K *
Tempe, AZ 85281In-Person
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
11 - 15 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or applicable technical field; master's degree preferred
  • 12+ years applicable experience in medical device, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or a similarly regulated industry
  • 6+ years direct people management experience preferred
  • Strong negotiation, problem-solving, organization, and communication skills
  • Excellent cross-functional team leadership capabilities

Responsibilities

  • Serve as a key member of the Business Unit Leadership Team, shaping business strategy and enterprise priorities
  • Lead global research and development programs from concept through commercialization
  • Ensure successful product transitions into manufacturing through collaboration
  • Drive product development strategy and execution across the organization
  • Partner across functions to achieve business objectives
  • Own departmental budgets and financial performance
  • Build and develop a high-performing, diverse R&D organization

Benefits

  • Work flexibility: Onsite
  • Opportunities for professional development and mentorship
  • Collaborative work environment focused on innovation
  • Engagement in diverse cross-functional initiatives
  • Influence on strategic direction and business growth
Full Job Description
Work Flexibility: Onsite

The Director, Research & Development is responsible for leading Stryker Sustainability Solutions (SSS) innovation, product development, and regulatory strategy to deliver sustainable business growth. This leader oversees the development and commercialization of new and expanded product offerings, ensures compliance with global regulatory requirements, and drives execution across R&D, Regulatory Affairs, Quality, and Program Management functions.

What You Will Do:

Strategic & Enterprise Leadership
  • Serve as a key member of the Business Unit Leadership Team (BULT), helping shape business strategy and enterprise priorities.
  • Establish and execute functional and departmental strategies aligned to business goals.
  • Drive organizational alignment, decision-making, and resolution of complex business challenges.
  • Identify and advance growth opportunities across product portfolios and business units.


Product Development & Innovation
  • Lead global research and development programs from concept through commercialization.
  • Drive product development strategy, processes, and execution across the organization.
  • Ensure successful product transitions into manufacturing through strong cross-functional collaboration.
  • Oversee project planning, resource allocation, schedules, milestones, and portfolio performance.
  • Foster innovation and continuous improvement through Lean and problem-solving methodologies.


Regulatory Affairs, Quality & Compliance
  • Ensure compliance with FDA, EU, and other applicable regulatory requirements.
  • Provide leadership for design controls, product development documentation, and quality system processes.
  • Support and strengthen Quality Management System initiatives and performance metrics.
  • Review and approve technical and regulatory deliverables to ensure compliance and product quality.


Customer & Market Engagement
  • Lead customer-focused innovation and research activities, partnering with key opinion leaders (KOLs) and external stakeholders to inform product strategy.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies and market opportunities to support long-term growth.
  • Ensure customer needs remain central to product and portfolio decisions.


Cross-Functional Leadership & Collaboration
  • Partner across R&D, Quality, Regulatory, Operations, Marketing, Finance, Manufacturing, and other functions to achieve business objectives.
  • Drive alignment across teams, divisions, customers, and key stakeholders.
  • Lead complex, cross-functional initiatives that advance innovation and business performance.


Financial & Operational Leadership
  • Own departmental budgets, resource planning, and financial performance.
  • Drive financial accountability across programs, projects, and cost centers.
  • Monitor portfolio performance through effective reporting, metrics, and governance.
  • Ensure efficient use of resources while balancing strategic priorities and business objectives.


Talent Leadership & Team Development
  • Build, lead, and develop a high-performing, diverse, and engaged R&D organization.
  • Attract, retain, and develop top talent through coaching, mentoring, and performance management.
  • Create a culture of accountability, inclusion, collaboration, and continuous learning.
  • Develop future leaders and maintain a strong talent pipeline.


Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or applicable technical field; master's degree preferred
  • 12+ years applicable experience in medical device, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology or a similarly regulated industry
  • 6+ years direct people management experience preferred


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Excellent cross-functional team leadership capabilities
  • Strong negotiation, problem solving, organization and communication skills
  • Business development experience preferred
  • 510K and premarket submission experience preferred
  • Working knowledge of FDA (GMP/QSR) and ISO requirements
  • Broad and comprehensive understanding of, experience in, and ability to mentor in one or more technical / functional disciplines.
  • Talented performance coach who is skilled at providing actionable feedback to team members, setting clear performance objectives and managing team member performance.
  • Advanced understanding that contributes to the overall business strategy relative to the healthcare market and competitors, conversant in clinical issues of relevance to Stryker.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate complex plans and technical information to team members and executive leaders across divisions.
  • Proven ability to deliver programs or other business goals on time, on quality and within budget.


United States of America Pay Ranges:
  • USN: $155,900 - $259,700 USD Annual


View the U.S. work location and transparency guide to find the pay range for your location.

Travel Percentage: None

About Stryker Corporation

Stryker Networks is a premier Information Technology partner providing IT managed services and database application development.

Stryker Corporation Careers

Joining Stryker Corporation means becoming part of a global team recognized for its commitment to innovation, leadership, and enhancing patient outcomes. As a leading medical technology company, Stryker is the perfect place to build a career that truly makes a difference.

Work You’ll Do

At Stryker, every position contributes to our mission of making healthcare better. Here, you will use your skills to work on transformative projects that improve lives across the globe. You will be part of a culture that thrives on growth, innovation, and leadership, and you will work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry.

Innovative Careers

Stryker offers a range of job opportunities, from internships that provide a stepping stone into high-impact roles to leadership positions that drive strategic direction. Our team members benefit from a work environment that supports professional growth and diversity training, ensuring everyone, regardless of background, can thrive.

Be Part of a Great Team

Our employees enjoy a collaborative atmosphere that fosters innovation and encourages professional development. With a commitment to leadership and diversity, Stryker ensures that all team members have the opportunity to grow and influence the company's future. Our global scale and dedication to impactful solutions make us leaders in medical technology.

Future-Proof Your Career

Stryker is dedicated to career development, offering extensive training, benefits, and resources to help you advance professionally. From networking opportunities to workshops on resume and interview skills, we support your journey every step of the way. Our career paths are as diverse as the innovative products we develop and the markets we serve.

Explore Job Opportunities

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, Stryker provides the tools and resources to achieve your goals. We are continuously hiring and looking for ambitious, curious, and driven individuals to join our team.

Stryker Corporation – A Leader in Medical Technology

Our commitment to improving healthcare through innovative products sets us apart in the medical technology field. The synergy of our team’s expertise and our leadership in technology solutions enables us to meet the needs of our customers effectively.

Stay Connected

Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interest. We look for passionate, creative, and solution-driven team players. Explore the many benefits of employment at Stryker, a company that values innovation and leadership.

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Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at Stryker Corporation.

Stryker Corporation – Where Talent Meets Opportunity

At Stryker, we believe in turning the challenges of today into the breakthroughs of tomorrow. Join us in our mission to improve healthcare around the world.
Learn more about Stryker Corporation
Size
46,000 employees
Market Cap
$91.9 billion
Industry
Healthcare
Net Income
$1.5 billion
Founded
2004
5 Year Trend
+8.6%
Revenue
$14.3 billion
NASDAQ
SYK
* Ladders Estimates

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