M&D Exploration Lead

This role is for the explorer who thrives on research, discovery, and transformation. 

As the Exploration Lead, you’ll be at the forefront of research and curiosity.  Identifying opportunities, researching emerging technologies, and helping us build smarter, more agile systems that support our long-term goals across our global M&D fulfilment structure of the future. 

This isn’t a traditional role. It’s about asking the right questions, challenging assumptions, and exploring what’s possible. You’ll work closely with internal teams and external partners to shape the future of how we make, move, and deliver products, from contact lenses to hearing aids and beyond.

You’ll lead the identification and development of opportunities for vertical integration across all product categories. This means exploring how we can bring more of our production processes in-house to enhance value creation and gain greater control over operations.

Your role will involve conducting deep research into emerging technologies, market trends, and intellectual property, including patent analysis to inform strategic decisions and drive innovation. You’ll be a key contributor to R&D proposals and projects, offering technical insight and operational expertise to help shape the direction and impact.

You’ll also be responsible for introducing advanced technologies into our core M&D processes. This includes exploring the potential of additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and other cutting-edge solutions to improve efficiency, scalability, and product customisation. You’ll champion design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA) principles, helping us streamline production and elevate product quality.

As a strategic partner to the Director of M&D Development, you’ll support horizon scanning and long-term planning. You’ll help align transformation initiatives with our global strategy, applying a rigorous, data driven approach and working collaboratively across teams to deliver sustainable innovation.

We’re looking for someone with a strategic mindset, a strong foundation in researching and ideally, knowledge of manufacturing and distribution operations. You’ll have experience leading transformation initiatives, and a solid understanding of how emerging technologies can be applied in industrial settings.

You’ll be comfortable managing complex projects and influencing cross-functional teams. Your analytical skills and passion for innovation will help you uncover opportunities and drive continuous improvement. Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills are essential, along with the ability to work with curiosity, agility, and a drive to make meaningful change.

This is a home-based role with travel across the UK, EU, and globally as needed.

Ready to start this journey?  Apply now!  #LI-AW1