R&D Manager –Chassis Engineering

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced R&D Manager – Chassis Engineering to lead the technical and managerial activities related to chassis systems development. This role requires strong technical expertise combined with proven people and project management skills, ensuring full alignment with Nissan standards, development processes, and global engineering requirements. The position plays a critical role in delivering safe, competitive, and high-quality vehicle solutions from concept through production.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all Chassis Engineering activities, including suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires, frames, and subframes.
• Drive the complete product development lifecycle in accordance with Nissan engineering standards, procedures, and validation processes.
• Provide technical leadership and decision-making to ensure optimal balance between performance, safety, cost, quality, and timing.
• Manage and develop the chassis engineering team, fostering technical excellence, accountability, and continuous capability enhancement.
• Coordinate cross-functional and global collaboration with Vehicle Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, Test & Validation, and Program Management.
• Ensure full compliance with internal Nissan standards, global automotive regulations, and regional homologation requirements.
• Lead design reviews, technical assessments, DFMEA, DVP&R, and performance validation activities.
• Oversee supplier technical interfaces, including design reviews, risk assessments, cost optimization, and issue resolution.
• Monitor project status, risks, and KPIs, providing clear and structured reporting to senior management.
• Promote continuous improvement, best practices, and standardization across chassis development activities.

Required Knowledge & Technical Skills

• Fluent English (spoken and written).
• Deep technical expertise in chassis systems engineering, including suspension, steering, braking, and vehicle dynamics.
• Strong knowledge of Nissan development processes, engineering methodologies, and technical standards.
• Solid understanding of automotive regulations, safety requirements, and validation standards.
• Proven experience with CAD systems, CAE concepts, and engineering documentation.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills within a global matrix organization.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities with a structured engineering mindset.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 10–12 years of experience in automotive Chassis Engineering, with a significant portion in a leadership or management role.
• Proven track record managing both technical teams and complex development projects within OEM environments, preferably Nissan or similar global manufacturers.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience within Nissan R&D organizations or strong familiarity with Nissan product development culture and standards.
• Experience working in global R&D environments, interacting with headquarters and regional engineering centers.
• Background in vehicle performance development, testing, and validation activities.
• Exposure to cost optimization, value engineering, and platform-based development strategies.

Travel Requirements

• Availability for frequent domestic and international travel, including visits to Nissan technical centers, manufacturing plants, suppliers, and test facilities.

Behavioral Competencies

• Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence and align diverse stakeholders.
• Strategic mindset with strong execution and delivery focus.
• High sense of ownership, accountability, and commitment to product excellence.
• Ability to operate effectively in complex, multicultural, and fast-paced environments