R&D Manager Infection Management

Job description

Drive innovation where it matters At Mölnlycke, we believe that real impact starts with people. People who challenge the status quo. People who care deeply about improving outcomes in healthcare. As a global medical solutions company, we design and deliver innovative products and services that make a real difference for patients and healthcare professionals worldwide. In Wound Care, we help prevent, manage, and accelerate the healing of wounds. Mölnlycke is now looking for an R&D Manager Infection Management to strengthen our Global R&D innovation capability. Why this role matters This is a critical leadership role with end-to-end accountability for delivering competitive, customer-centric wound care solutions within the Infection Management portfolio. You will lead and develop a dedicated team of Product Developers and a Scientific Evidence Manager, fostering a high-performing, collaborative environment focused on innovation and execution. You will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing the R&D strategy, ensuring that innovation and product development translate into commercially viable, high-impact outcomes. Your work will directly influence how we build, prioritize, and deliver a balanced and future-ready portfolio. Here’s how you’ll make an impact: Lead and execute the R&D strategy for the Infection Management portfolio Deliver on approved development roadmaps aligned with strategic KPIs and financial targets Ensure a strong, competitive portfolio through differentiated value propositions, IP, and innovation Drive the development of both physical products and broader solutions across the wound care ecosystem Partner closely with Marketing and cross-functional teams to align technical execution with commercial strategy and market needs Foster a high-performing, collaborative, and customer-centric R&D environment What you’ll be doing In this role, you will operate at the intersection of strategy, execution, and leadership: Lead end-to-end execution of product and solution development projects, ensuring delivery on scope, quality, time, and budget Define and implement the R&D strategy for Infection Management, including roadmap ownership and prioritization Drive a balanced portfolio by identifying gaps, shaping mid- and long-term roadmaps, and initiating development projects Translate customer and market needs into clear product and solution requirements in close collaboration with Marketing Lead and develop a team of product developers and scientific experts, ensuring strong capabilities and future readiness Drive innovation pipeline activities and execute innovation initiatives in collaboration with internal and external partners Ensure customer-centricity through customer insights work, clinical understanding, and requirement clarity in early development phases Oversee pre-clinical studies and evidence generation to support value propositions and market success Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and emerging technologies within infection management Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, design control principles, and quality standards Manage project resources, budgets (OPEX/CAPEX), and timelines in line with governance processes What you’ll get A culture built on trust, accountability, and shared ownership—where innovation, partnership, and impact go hand in hand. Your growth and development You’ll step into a highly visible leadership role with significant strategic influence. This is a unique opportunity to: Own and shape the Infection Management portfolio and roadmap Lead a newly formed team and define ways of working Influence strategic investment and innovation decisions at a global level Work cross-functionally across R&D, Marketing, and Commercial teams Make a direct impact on patient outcomes and Mölnlycke’s success in a key growth segment Flexibility, wellbeing and benefits Hybrid setup with connection to our Gothenburg HQ Global exposure and collaboration Competitive benefits aligned with local policies A purpose-driven environment focused on improving patient outcomes What you bring Advanced degree (Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent) in Engineering, Life Sciences, or related field 10+ years of R&D experience in the medical device or pharmaceutical industry, preferably within wound care or infection management Strong expertise in wound care, including deep understanding of wound infections and their clinical impact Strong technical expertise in antimicrobial solutions, including familiarity with antimicrobial products and their modes of action Proven track record of driving product development from concept to successful commercialization Deep understanding of Applied Design Control, Design for Manufacturing, and Design for Sustainability principles Ability to translate customer and market insights into clear product requirements and solutions Proven leadership experience with strong people management skills Excellent project management and cross-functional collaboration capabilities Strong business acumen and ability to manage commercially viable portfolios Strong communication skills and stakeholder management Fluency in English, both written and spoken Nice-to-haves Understanding of healthcare systems and reimbursement mechanisms Knowledge of regulatory frameworks and industry standards Exposure to ecosystem-based healthcare solutions and integrated care models Experience working in global and cross-regional environments Our approach to Diversity & Inclusion We’re building a workplace where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. We believe that diverse perspectives drive better decisions and stronger outcomes, and we’re committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive. About Mölnlycke Mölnlycke is a world-leading medical products and solutions company that equips healthcare professionals to achieve the best patient, clinical and economic outcomes. Our business is organised in four areas: Wound Care, Operating Room Solutions, Gloves and Antiseptics, where customer centricity, sustainability and digitalisation are at the heart of everything we do. Mölnlycke employs around 8,700 people worldwide. The headquarters are in Gothenburg, Sweden, and we operate in more than 100 countries.