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Director, Research and Development

  • Job
    Full-time
    Expert Level
  • Research & Development
    IT & Cybersecurity
  • Burbank

AI generated summary

  • You need 12+ years in software or systems engineering, strong leadership skills, strategic thinking, adaptability to tech changes, and excellent communication. A degree in a relevant field is required.
  • You will lead innovation strategy, identify emerging technologies, foster a collaborative culture, collaborate across teams, and communicate updates to stakeholders.

Requirements

  • Proven Technical Leadership: At least 12+ years of experience in software, systems, or data engineering or architecture, with significant experience leading technical teams.
  • Strategic and Analytical Thinking: Ability to devise strategic plans for technology integration that align with business goals. Proficient in problem-solving and analytical thinking to overcome challenges.
  • Adaptability and Vision: Capability to adapt to changing technology landscapes and foresee how to leverage technology in new ways to benefit the company.
  • Communication and Motivation: Able to communicate to all levels of the organization, both technologists and business folks, provide thought leadership and inspire others to embrace a vision of the future.
  • Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.

Responsibilities

  • Leadership and Strategic Planning: Build & direct the innovation team, ensuring strategic alignment with business and technology goals. Develop a roadmap for the establishment and ongoing maturation of innovation processes, ensuring that they continue to deliver to the needs of Enterprise Technology.
  • Emerging Technology Identification and Evaluation: Publish and maintain an ongoing series of Emerging Technology Radars that identify emerging technologies and trends related to our products and services, determine alignment with our strategic goals, and potential benefits. Further evaluate the feasibility and value of the most relevant emerging technologies through experiments, prototyping, and proof of value.
  • Foster Cross-Functional Innovation Culture: Cultivate a culture of innovation and ongoing technical self-development within Enterprise Technology by running cross-functional Hackathons, Design Thinking sessions, Demo Days, and knowledge sharing from external thought leaders. Establish relationships with vendors and external bodies around technical innovation / open source / etc.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with other Enterprise Technology engineering leaders and product managers to understand their strategies and identify opportunities for alignment of emerging technologies within their roadmaps. Collaborate with other innovation teams within Corporate and other Disney segments to replicate best practices and leverage relationships.
  • Stakeholder Communication and Awareness: Maintain regular communication with senior management and other stakeholders, providing updates on ongoing effectiveness and performance of the innovation department. Continuously educate and make senior leadership with Enterprise Technology and the other Corporate Functions aware of emerging technologies and industry trends and their applicability.

FAQs

What is the primary responsibility of the Director of Research and Development?

The primary responsibility is to lead a skilled team of architects and engineers, identify emerging technologies, assess their strategic fit, and drive innovation within the Enterprise Technology team.

How many years of experience are required for this position?

At least 12+ years of experience in software, systems, or data engineering or architecture, with significant experience leading technical teams, is required.

What educational qualifications are preferred for this role?

A degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field is preferred.

What types of initiatives will be implemented to foster an innovation culture?

Initiatives include running cross-functional Hackathons, Design Thinking sessions, Demo Days, and facilitating knowledge sharing from external thought leaders.

Will this role require collaboration with other teams?

Yes, the role requires close collaboration with other Enterprise Technology engineering leaders, product managers, and innovation teams across Corporate and other Disney segments.

What characteristics are important for a candidate in this position?

Important characteristics include strategic and analytical thinking, adaptability to changing technology landscapes, strong communication skills, and the ability to inspire and motivate others.

What is the salary range for this position in California and Washington?

The hiring range in California is $202,900 - $272,100 per year, and in Washington, it is $212,600 - $285,100 per year.

Is there a bonus or incentive program included in the compensation package?

Yes, a bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to comprehensive medical and financial benefits.

What is the focus of the Emerging Technology Radars mentioned in the job description?

The Emerging Technology Radars focus on identifying emerging technologies and trends that relate to the company’s products and services, assessing their alignment with strategic goals, and evaluating their potential benefits.

How will the Director communicate with stakeholders about the innovation department's performance?

The Director will maintain regular communication with senior management and other stakeholders, providing updates on the effectiveness and performance of the innovation department.

Entertainment & Media
Industry
10,001+
Employees

Mission & Purpose

From classic animated features and exhilarating theme park attractions to cutting edge sports coverage, and the hottest shows on television, The Walt Disney Company has been making magic since 1923, creating unforgettable stories that connect with audiences around the world. And we’re just getting started! The key to our success…. The Cast, Crew, Imagineers and Employees who honor Disney’s rich legacy by stretching the bounds of imagination to create the never-before-seen, bringing unparalleled entertainment experiences to people of all ages. Begin a career that delivers unparalleled creative content and experiences to audiences around the world and just imagine the stories you could be part of… What is #LifeAtDisney like? It’s a series of magical moments with cast members and employees developing and telling our stories in the most innovative ways. Whether it’s a day spent as a Disney VoluntEAR, or celebrating the release of a new interactive experience, retail product or movie, our days are filled with the knowledge that we are creating entertainment experiences the whole family can enjoy. Follow @DisneyCareers on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for a peek behind-the-curtain, and discover how you could connect to a world of stories with Disney!