Head of Product Development

MacTaggart, Scott and Company; Scotland; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - GBP 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Scotland is seeking a Head of Product Development to lead R&D initiatives in marine engineering. The role involves managing projects, overseeing product development, and ensuring that innovations meet technical and market demands. Candidates should possess a relevant engineering degree and experience in design or development projects within naval or defence sectors. The position offers flexible working conditions and a robust benefits package.

Benefits

Flexible Working

Comprehensive Leave Policy

Generous company pension

Career Development Support

Wellbeing programmes

Health & Lifestyle benefits

Free onsite parking

Qualifications

• Experience in design, R&D, or development projects within marine, naval, or defence industries.
• Working knowledge of 3D CAD and FEA software.
• Broad understanding of general engineering principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage R&D projects from concept through execution.
• Prepare and present monthly progress reports to the Board.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate technical risks while managing project resources.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Project management

Innovation

Communication skills

Education

BSc, BEng, or MEng in a relevant engineering discipline

Tools

3D CAD

FEA software

Job description

Location

Loanhead, Edinburgh

Flexible Working Options

4- or 5‑day week with hours 07:00‑19:00, core hours 09:30‑15:30.

Join Our Senior Leadership Team: Head of Product Development

MacTaggart Scott is seeking an innovative and visionary Head of Product Development to steer the future of marine engineering. In this role you will lead cutting‑edge R&D projects, turning ideas into robust, market‑ready products. You will work independently with minimal supervision, managing projects proactively while shaping the company's technological direction.

About us

MacTaggart Scott has pioneered marine engineering since 1898, providing complete solutions for naval and defence customers. From requirements analysis to design, manufacture, commissioning, and through‑life support, we constantly innovate, invest in new technologies, and push boundaries to stay industry leaders.

What is the job about?

The Head of Product Development is responsible for leading research and development initiatives that enhance company products, technology, and capabilities. You will oversee the delivery of R&D projects on time, within budget, and to specification, ensuring innovation is balanced with technical feasibility and commercial impact. You will also engage in strategic planning, contribute to business improvement initiatives, and represent the company in external collaborations with universities and partners. Success is measured by the quality, efficiency, and market relevance of delivered products and your influence on technical and strategic decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage R&D projects from concept through execution, ensuring they meet technical, budgetary, and schedule requirements.
• Develop R&D business cases in collaboration with the Engineering Design Manager and Chief Engineer.
• Prepare and present monthly progress reports and quarterly strategic R&D reviews to the Board.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate technical risks while managing project resources efficiently.
• Contribute to design reviews and collaborative engineering problem‑solving.
• Generate technical reports, recommendations, and lessons learned for current and future products.
• Innovate and propose new equipment solutions for existing and emerging markets.
• Protect and manage company intellectual property, including patents where applicable.
• Engage with higher education institutions to support student placements and promote engineering excellence.
• Champion a safety‑first culture, ensuring compliance with all Health & Safety policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives across the business.

About You

• A creative, solution‑oriented engineer with a passion for innovation.
• Experienced in research, development, or design engineering within naval, defence, marine, or related sectors.
• Skilled at managing projects, budgets, and resources independently.
• Able to communicate complex technical information to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Proactive in contributing to strategic planning and decision‑making.
• Demonstrates strong commercial awareness and understanding of the value of intellectual property.

Requirements

Essential

• BSc, BEng, or MEng in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Broad understanding of general engineering principles.
• Experience in design, R&D, or development projects within marine, naval, or defence industries.
• Strong problem‑solving and innovative thinking skills.
• Working knowledge of 3D CAD and FEA software.
• Awareness of risk management methodologies.
• Commitment to Continued Professional Development (CPD).

Desirable

• Experience with rotating machinery, hydraulics, or electric drives.
• Experience managing intellectual property and patents.
• Familiarity with MOD or military environmental requirements.
• Prior exposure to strategic R&D planning and reporting to senior leadership.

Special Working Conditions

• The successful candidate must hold or be able to meet the appropriate Security Clearance as required.

Benefits

• Flexible Working: Choose a 4- or 5‑day week with flexible hours (07:00‑19:00, core hours 09:30‑15:30).
• Comprehensive Leave Policy including annual leave, paid parental leave, and military reservist leave.
• Generous company pension, rewards and an employee referral scheme.
• Career Development & Learning Support through our dedicated Learning and Development team.
• Wellbeing programmes including an Employee Assistance Programme, online wellbeing resources, and onsite nurse.
• Health & Lifestyle benefits such as life insurance, sick pay, free flu jabs, and a cycle‑to‑work scheme.
• Convenience & Facilities: free onsite parking, canteen, and employee discounts.