Functional Engineering Leader - NPI, Sustaining Engineering & Innovation (m/f/d)

Overview

Experteer Overview In this role you will shape TE Connectivity's technology roadmap and lead a global engineering organization to deliver safer, sustainable, and connected solutions. You will drive NPI, sustaining engineering, qualification labs, VAVE, and an innovation portfolio from concept to launch and lifecycle support. By aligning customer needs, automotive requirements, and technology trends, you will accelerate differentiation and growth. You will build cross-functional partnerships and foster AI-enabled, digital engineering practices to elevate engineering excellence. This leadership position offers the chance to influence strategy, scale impact globally, and advance TE’s mission across industries.

Responsibilities

• Lead global NPI, sustaining engineering, qualification labs, VAVE, and the innovation portfolio from concept through industrialization, launch, and lifecycle support
• Define and execute the technology and product engineering roadmap aligned with business strategy, customer needs, automotive requirements, and technology trends
• Drive development of differentiated material and product solutions to strengthen market position and growth
• Oversee program execution including prioritization, resource planning, risk management, technical reviews, qualification activities, and launch readiness
• Lead value engineering and cost optimization in collaboration with operations, quality, supply chain, product management, and commercial teams
• Develop internal and external innovation networks with suppliers, universities, technology partners, and industry experts
• Build, coach, and develop a global engineering organization, championing digital engineering, AI adoption, continuous improvement, and cross-functional collaboration

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Engineering, or a related technical discipline; an advanced degree is an advantage
• Significant leadership experience in materials science, product development, innovation, NPI, sustaining engineering, qualification labs, or VAVE environments
• Strong understanding of automotive applications, customer requirements, qualification processes, and relevant material systems
• Proven experience leading global or multi-regional teams within complex matrix organizations and delivering against strategic roadmaps
• Strong commercial and technical acumen, with the ability to align engineering investment and innovation priorities with business objectives
• Experience collaborating with external technology partners, suppliers, universities, and industry stakeholders to accelerate innovation
• Knowledge of digital engineering and AI-enabled tools, with a track record of adoption across engineering, manufacturing, quality, operations, and supply chain

Benefits

• Competitive Salary Package
• Performance-Based Bonus Plans
• Health and Wellness Incentives
• Employee Stock Purchase Program
• Community Outreach Programs / Charity Events
• Employee Resource Group