Executive Director – Engine and Thermal Systems

The Executive Director – Engine and Thermal Systems will be responsible for the strategic leadership, development, and global execution of all engineering activities related to internal combustion engines (ICE), hybrid powertrains, and vehicle thermal management systems. This role will ensure the development of advanced technologies that support performance, emissions compliance, electrification readiness, and system efficiency across diverse vehicle platforms.

This executive will lead cross-functional teams in delivering innovative, reliable, and cost-effective engine architectures, cooling systems, lubrication circuits, EGR systems, HVAC thermal modules, and battery thermal management systems.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Define and implement the long-term roadmap for engine and thermal system technologies, aligned with global regulatory trends (emissions, fuel economy, thermal performance).

• Provide technical and strategic leadership on ICE, hybrid, and electrified thermal systems across vehicle platforms (light-duty, commercial, industrial).

• Oversee development of scalable, modular platforms that reduce time to market and development costs.

2. Engineering & Product Development Oversight

• Lead the development and validation of core engine systems: cylinder heads, blocks, valvetrains, crankshafts, pistons, EGR, turbo systems, and lubrication.

• Direct architecture and performance optimization of thermal systems including radiators, condensers, water pumps, thermostats, HVAC units, and battery cooling.

• Ensure engineering rigor through robust simulation, testing, and validation using tools like CFD, FEA, 1D thermo-fluid modeling, and engine test cells.

3. Program & Cross-Functional Leadership

• Manage technical delivery across multiple global programs to meet performance, durability, cost, and packaging targets.

• Collaborate closely with calibration, controls, vehicle integration, manufacturing, sourcing, and quality teams to ensure seamless integration and launch.

• Support production transfers, supplier localization, and design for manufacturability (DFM) strategies.

4. Innovation & Technology Advancement

• Foster innovation in advanced combustion techniques, friction reduction, material technologies, thermal electrification, and energy recovery systems.

• Drive digitalization and predictive analytics in engine and thermal development processes.

• Engage with industry consortia, standards bodies, and universities to influence the future of propulsion and thermal engineering.

5. Organizational Leadership

• Lead and mentor a global team of senior managers, engineers, analysts, and technical specialists.

• Build internal capabilities across mechanical design, thermal simulation, system integration, and failure analysis.

• Promote a culture of safety, quality, innovation, and operational excellence.

Key Focus Areas:

• Advanced Engine Architecture & Efficiency Technologies

• Vehicle Thermal and Climate Control Systems

• Emissions & Compliance Systems (EGR, Aftertreatment)

• Thermal Systems for BEV/Hybrid Platforms

• Global Technical Team Leadership and Execution

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or Thermodynamics; Ph.D. is a plus.

• 15+ years of experience in engine and/or thermal system development, with at least 5 years in an executive leadership role.

• Proven track record in leading successful engine and thermal product programs across global markets.

Preferred Skills:

• Deep technical knowledge in combustion, thermal transfer, emissions control, and mechatronic integration.

• Strong command of tools such as GT-Power, AMESim, STAR-CCM+, ANSYS Fluent, MATLAB/Simulink.

• Experience with automotive quality systems (IATF 16949), functional safety (ISO 26262), and industry regulations (EPA, CARB, Euro VI, etc.).

• Excellent leadership, strategic planning, and communication skills across diverse stakeholders.