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Executive Director – Powertrain Innovation and Turbo Systems

Job Description

Roles & Responsibilities

Job Title: Executive Director – Powertrain Innovation & Turbo Systems

Job Summary:

The Executive Director of Powertrain Innovation & Turbo Systems leads the global strategy, R&D, and technical execution of advanced powertrain technologies, with a focus on high-efficiency turbocharging, hybrid boosting, and combustion system innovation. This role drives future propulsion performance, emissions reduction, and energy recovery systems across internal combustion engines, hybrid platforms, and transitional propulsion technologies. As a key technical executive, this position sets the vision for turbo system architecture, collaborates across vehicle platforms, and accelerates innovation toward carbon neutrality and high-performance mobility.

Key Responsibilities:

Powertrain Innovation Leadership

  • Define the strategic direction for advanced boosting technologies and turbo system architectures across ICE, hybrid, and mild hybrid systems.

  • Lead R&D into next-generation combustion-boosting integration, high-speed e-turbo systems, and waste energy recovery.

  • Shape technology roadmaps to align with regulatory requirements (Euro 7, EPA, CARB) and market performance needs.

Turbo Systems Engineering Oversight

  • Direct the design, simulation, testing, and validation of advanced turbochargers, variable geometry turbines, and e-boosting solutions.

  • Oversee integration of turbo systems with exhaust aftertreatment, intake, and engine control strategies.

  • Ensure turbo systems meet durability, NVH, transient response, and thermal performance targets.

Innovation in Energy Recovery & Electrification

  • Guide development of electrified turbo systems (e-turbos, turbo-compounding) for hybrid and performance platforms.

  • Partner with electrical engineering and controls teams on high-speed motor integration, battery support, and transient torque assist.

  • Explore thermal and kinetic energy recovery methods to improve propulsion system efficiency.

Team & Technical Leadership

  • Lead a global team of turbo system, combustion, and advanced powertrain engineers and specialists.

  • Develop talent through mentoring, succession planning, and technical leadership programs.

  • Build strong technical communities of practice around turbomachinery and boosting technologies.

Strategic Partnerships & Supplier Collaboration

  • Collaborate with Tier-1 suppliers, universities, and startup innovators to co-develop advanced boosting systems.

  • Define and govern turbo system specifications and technical performance KPIs across programs and regions.

Cross-Functional & Executive Collaboration

  • Partner with Engine, Electrification, Vehicle Integration, and Program Management leadership to align product strategies.

  • Represent Powertrain Innovation in corporate strategy, regulatory forums, and cross-functional steering committees.

Key Focus Areas:

  • Turbo system innovation (VGT, e-turbos, e-boosting, twin-scroll)

  • Advanced powertrain architecture and hybrid integration

  • Combustion-boost synergy and transient performance

  • Energy recovery and high-speed rotating systems

  • Simulation (1D, CFD, thermomechanical), durability, and NVH

  • Executive-level technology planning and team leadership

Qualifications & Skills:

Education:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Automotive, or Aerospace Engineering required

  • Master’s or PhD in Thermodynamics, Internal Combustion, or Turbomachinery preferred

Certifications:

  • CEng, PE, or similar technical accreditations preferred

  • Training in Six Sigma, advanced simulation, or leadership development a plus

Experience:

  • 15+ years in advanced powertrain development or turbomachinery engineering within the automotive or motorsport sectors

  • 7+ years in a senior engineering leadership role managing innovation programs and cross-functional teams

  • Direct experience launching turbo or hybrid boosting systems into production vehicles

Technical & Leadership Competencies:

  • Deep expertise in combustion-turbo interaction, aerothermal systems, and turbocharger mechanics

  • Proficiency with tools like GT-Power, AVL Boost, CFD software, and dyno validation

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Job Detail
  • Work Type: Full Time
  • Languages to be known : English
  • Country: United Kingdom
  • City: Dubai
  • Job Category : Automotive