Head of R&D Showering

Being part of the Villeroy & Boch Group means creating aesthetic homes for customers worldwide – a journey we've been on since 1748 and sharing with Ideal Standard since 2024. Everyone out of our 12,000 employees in more than 40 countries takes part in our success story of being one of the world's leading manufacturers in the ceramics and lifestyle industries. With our Bathroom & Wellness products we shape & create bathrooms to feel comfortable in. May that be when getting ready in front of your sink, looking into the mirror being excited for a night out with your friends or enjoying a cozy bathing session with music and candles on a relaxing Sunday.

We are seeking a forward-thinking
Head of R&D – Showerin
g to lead the development of our smart premium & premium showering portfolio. This role is pivotal in bringing the Villeroy & Boch group brands to winning, next generation showering solutions that blend performance, design, sustainability, and smart functionality. You will drive innovation from ideation through industrialization, managing a multidisciplinary team across mechanical, hydraulic, electronic, and digital domains. The role is
based in Brussel
s, but requires weekly
presence in our technology center in Wittlich, German
y. Travelling to suppliers in Europe & APAC will be part of the role

Key Responsibilities

• Lead R&D Strategy
  for the showering category aligned with brand, consumer, and sustainability goals.
• Conceptualization and Development:
  You will be responsible for the conceptualization, development, and design of new taps and components, considering technical, economic, and regulatory requirements.
• Drive innovation & differentiation
  in water delivery, spray performance, thermal comfort, hygiene, and connectivity (e.g. app, voice, sensors) following industry and consumer trends
• Technical Analyses and Simulations:
  Conducting technical analyses, simulations, and calculations to optimize design and functionality.
• Prototype Construction and Testing:
  Building prototypes and conducting tests to validate designs and identify potential improvements.
• Documentation and Technology Monitoring:
  Creating technical documentation, reports, and presentations.
• Collaboration:
  Close cooperation with other departments such as product management, production, sales, design, manufacturing and quality assurance.
• Build and mentor a high-performing, global R&D team and foster a culture of technical excellence and curiosity.
• Support
  IP creation
  and supplier co-development.

Your Profile

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering
• 10–15+ years
  experience in R&D leadership roles with proven track record in similar industries
• Strong grasp of
  fluid mechanics/hydraulics, materials
  ,
  mechatronics
  .
• Proof of "maker mindset", ideally proof of significant IP contribution
• Experience with
  modular platforms
  ,
  design for manufacturing
  , and
  sustainability.
• Global mindset; capable of leading cross-functional teams across Europe and Asia.
• Software:
  Confident handling of CAD software and simulation software.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, structured way of working and Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication skills in German and English

Think outside the box with us #shapeandcreate