Director of International Compliance, Robotics

Our client has brought to market the most successful consumer robotic products in the world; with US market segment share in excess of 75%, and a sizable lead in Europe as well, according to Adam Fleck of Morningstar. Over the past year, the company has been going through a momentous transition in strategy and culture: from standalone hardware-oriented products to the internet and software-based Connected Home ecosystem that presents potential partners in everything from mobile and voice-enabled devices to add-on home automation functionality. An engineering focus that once prioritized individual product utility has shifted to one emphasizing an overarching cloud-based, connected platform offering a user experience consistent with the aspirational nature of a premium brand. The market has already registered its approval; as the company’s stock has doubled over the course of the past year, and the company’s 2017 revenue is estimated to increase by 30% this year.

Profile of the Role

The Director of International Compliance plans and directs resources and activities that ensure new products are developed, transported and marketed in accordance with international Design Control laws, standards and procedures in all countries where our client markets or manufactures products. He or she proactively and effectively evaluates, manages and communicates risk with respect to global product compliance, and provides consultation to all functional management groups around global compliance, affecting product development, manufacturing and distribution. The Director of Compliance directs implementation of new Compliance programs required by regulations and/or company directives, and establishes and maintains compliance programs, procedures and controls among core teams.

Responsibilities

  • Create long-range quality plans focusing on the effective development of new products and establishing systems to ensure implementation and maintenance of policies and strategies for systems that are compliant with regulations and industry standards in all of the company’s global markets
  • Implement an integrated quality management system approach balancing customer satisfaction and regulatory compliance with business objectives
  • Attend Risk Management Board and Quality Review Board meetings to provide product quality expertise and may lead failure investigation discussion for issues related to compliance in product design or manufacturing
  • Identify opportunities to continuously improve quality, cost and time factors, consistent with international standards and business objectives
  • Influence business strategies by ensuring an appropriate balance of business, customer and regulatory requirements and emerging trends
  • Develop and set strategic direction for quality that integrates regulatory compliance with customer, product and market requirements
  • Represent the company during compliance inspections by United States regulatory agencies, Notified Body and foreign governments for compliance inspections, as required
  • Ensures management reviews of the quality system are conducted effectively
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of global regulations and standards affecting product development
  • Provide updates to company regarding compliance status and performance

Qualifications

  • Significant experience working with an international set of regulations and regulatory authorities and certification bodies for complex consumer products that include hardware, software and electromechanical components
  • Knowledge of international homologation and global requirements, laws, standards and certifications involving product Safety, EMC, Eco-design and Transport
  • Knowledge of and compliance with applicable Quality System requirements (e.g., QSRs, ISO and OSHA)
  • Superior international regulatory, technical and business knowledge to develop operational strategies for continued compliance and quality assurance
  • Ability to develop long-term strategies and implement corresponding performance standards
  • Ability to apply project management skills to ensure fulfillment of long-term requirements
  • Working knowledge and experience in managing domestic and international third party inspections and negotiating with 3rd parties on compliance issues
  • Excellent change management style and demonstrable track record of leading organization through change
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills to communicate effectively at all levels
  • Minimum 3 years’ management experience
  • Ability to travel <20%, both domestic and international
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related preferred

 

Interested in this position? Get in touch.