Head of Tinting & Polarised Development

ZEISS is technology and innovation.

Founded in Germany in 1846, ZEISS is an internationally leading technology enterprise operating in the optics and optoelectronics industries across 50 countries.

As a company wholly owned by a foundation, ZEISS is committed to responsibility in all its activities. As a pioneer in scientific optics, our employees across the globe continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. With a strong focus on quality and innovation, ZEISS creates value for its customers and helps shape new ways of seeing the world.

We're looking for a Head of Tinting & Polarised Development to join us in Setúbal, Portugal.

ZEISS Vision Care Portugal is a key global hub for innovation and manufacturing, bringing together talented teams across research, development, engineering, and production. Our teams are dedicated to advancing ophthalmic lens technologies and delivering innovative solutions that improve vision for millions of people worldwide.

Your Role

As the Head of Tinting & Polarised Development, you will spearhead the exploration and advancement of process innovations for tinted and polarised ophthalmic lens solutions, ensuring alignment with the ZEISS Lens Product and Technology Roadmaps.

Leading a global, cross-functional team of scientists, engineers, and technicians, you will drive the development of new technologies from concept through to high-volume manufacturing. Working closely with Product Owners, Manufacturing teams, suppliers, research institutes, and technology partners, you will ensure new solutions are commercially viable, manufacturable, and deliver the highest standards of quality, performance, and innovation.

The role of Head of Tinting & Polarised Development will involve:

• Developing, aligning, and executing the strategic vision for process innovation in tinted and polarised lens technologies in line with the ZEISS Product and Technology Roadmaps.
• Identifying and evaluating emerging technologies to maintain ZEISS' competitive advantage and drive future innovation.
• Leading the development of new tinted and polarised technologies from initial concept through to successful industrialisation and commercialisation.
• Managing, mentoring, and developing a global team of scientists, engineers, and technical specialists, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Driving a high-performance culture in line with ZEISS values and principles.
• Collaborating closely with Product Owners and Manufacturing teams to ensure new technologies meet both market requirements and production capabilities.
• Building and maintaining strategic partnerships with suppliers, universities, research institutes, governing bodies, and technology partners.
• Communicating project progress, challenges, risks, and achievements effectively to senior leadership and key stakeholders.
• Continuously improving development processes, tools, and technologies to enhance efficiency, quality, and innovation.
• Supporting the long-term growth of the Vision Care business by translating research and innovation into commercially successful products.

Your Experience

Essential

• Master's or Diploma degree in Natural Sciences, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience leading research and development activities within an optical, engineering, manufacturing, or advanced technology environment.
• Demonstrated experience managing multidisciplinary teams and leading complex development projects from concept through implementation.
• Strong understanding of product development, industrialisation, and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent leadership, stakeholder management, and organisational skills.
• Fluent in English, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

It would be desirable if you had:

• A PhD in Natural Sciences, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience leading globally distributed teams.
• Knowledge of spectacle lens technologies and manufacturing processes.
• Experience collaborating with universities, research institutes, suppliers, or external technology partners.
• Familiarity with sustainability initiatives and continuous improvement within an R&D environment.

Your Benefits

If you join ZEISS, you will have access to a range of benefits, including:

• The opportunity to lead global innovation programmes within an internationally recognised technology company.
• Professional development and leadership growth opportunities.
• Collaboration with world-class researchers, engineers, and technology partners.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and technologies.
• A collaborative, innovative, and purpose-driven working environment.

Role Details

Location: Setúbal, Portugal

Travel: Up to 20% international travel, primarily to ZEISS development and production sites in Germany, Mexico, China, and Australia.

Diversity & Inclusion

Diversity is a core part of ZEISS. We welcome applications regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, philosophy of life, disability, age, sexual orientation, or identity.

Apply now

Apply now to take the next step in joining ZEISS, where you can push technological boundaries, shape markets, and contribute to the advancement of society.

Your ZEISS Recruiting Team:

Sayem Chowdhury