R&D Manager, GBL Power Reliability

About the role

ABB is looking for a Global R&D Manager for its Power Reliability business, reporting to the Global Product & Technology Manager. The role leads the global R&D organisation behind excitation and synchronization systems that keep power plants stable and grids secure, supporting renewable and hydro generation. It is based in Turgi/Baden, Switzerland, on an onsite/hybrid basis, and the candidate must be able to work there or relocate, with possible relocation support.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the global R&D teams for excitation, synchronization, hydropower and emerging applications such as hydrogen electrolysis rectifiers, including line management of team leads and coordination of external partners and Hydro Execution Centers.
• Translate the product roadmap, set with Product Management, into technology roadmaps, development plans and investment proposals covering products, systems and digital offerings.
• Balance resources, budget, quality and time-to-market through structured gate processes and performance indicators.
• Own the technical product lifecycle from development to end-of-life, balancing innovation with obsolescence management, installed-base support and migration paths.
• Ensure regulatory, cybersecurity and product-standard compliance, including CE requirements, the EU Cyber Resilience Act, IEC 62443 and grid codes.
• Develop engineering talent and succession plans, optimise the global R&D footprint and make-make-or-buy decisions, and promote reusable platforms while managing technology risks and intellectual property.

Required profile

• Degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent qualification.
• At least 10 years of relevant experience in R&D, engineering or product development in power generation, energy or industrial automation, with accountability for delivery.
• At least five years of leadership in an international organisation, including distributed, multicultural teams.
• Experience turning business strategy and customer needs into technology roadmaps, budgets and portfolios.
• Experience managing technical product lifecycles and product compliance.
• Fluent English; German is an advantage.

Required skills

• Solid understanding of power electronics and control systems in power generation or related industrial applications; excitation, synchronization, hydropower or industrial rectifiers is an advantage.
• Knowledge of CE requirements, the EU Cyber Resilience Act and IEC 62443.
• Leadership that can align stakeholders without direct authority and communicate across technical and management audiences.