Head of Design & Engineering Services

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Head of Design & Engineering Services Company: Candidate Experience site Location: Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia Job Type: Temps plein (Full-time) Category: Engineering & Design Operations Date Posted: 2025-09-08T15:03:24 Experience Level: 10+ years professional experience, with at least 4 years in a similar management role. Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and develop engineering services, including R&D, Design, and Simulation, for products and tooling.
• Drive a dynamic of technological innovation and ensure alignment with the strategic needs of the Hutchinson group.
• Manage and mentor engineering teams, fostering a results-oriented, collaborative, and stimulating work environment.
• Oversee project lifecycles, ensuring adherence to planning, budget, and resource allocation.
• Act as a key liaison between engineering and other departments (Technical, Production, Quality, IT, HR) for all engineering-related matters.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Head of Design & Engineering Services," the description strongly leans towards a leadership role within a technical R&D and product development context, rather than a typical "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" role. The focus is on internal client satisfaction (other group sites) and international group development, suggesting a strong internal GTM (Go-To-Market) for engineering services. The keywords and responsibilities highlight a strategic, innovation-driven, and team-management-centric position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Development:
  • Manage and develop engineering teams, defining objectives, nurturing talent, and encouraging autonomy.
  • Cultivate a continuous innovation culture, encouraging pilot projects, experimentation, and the adoption of new approaches.
  • Create and maintain a stimulating, collaborative, and results-driven work environment.
  • Foster the growth of local expertise and support the expansion of teams through identifying development opportunities.
• Strategic & Innovation Management:
  • Drive technological innovation and ensure alignment with the strategic objectives of the Hutchinson group.
  • Collaborate with external partners (startups, labs, universities) to stay at the forefront of technological advancements.
  • Actively contribute to new product and technology developments for the group on an international scale.
  • Proactively identify and propose new projects to other group sites, aiming to expand the tech center's scope.
• Project & Client Management:
  • Oversee engineering projects, meticulously tracking planning, budget, and resource utilization.
  • Guarantee the satisfaction of internal clients (other sites within the group) by delivering high-quality engineering services.
  • Ensure knowledge capitalization and facilitate experience feedback loops to continuously improve processes.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration & HSEEn:
  • Serve as the primary interface for engineering matters with other departments, including Technical, Production, Quality, IT, and HR.
  • Ensure strict adherence to and promotion of HSEEn (Hygiene, Safety, Environment, and Energy) regulations.
  • Actively participate in the improvement of HSEEn procedures, manage risk reporting, and lead corrective actions for any deviations or non-conformities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical leadership, strategic innovation, and team management, aligning with a senior engineering/R&D management role. The "internal client" focus and international scope suggest elements of GTM strategy for engineering services within a larger conglomerate.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum Academic Level: BAC +5 (Master's degree or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Professional Experience: 10 years or more in engineering or a related technical field.
• Management Experience: A minimum of 4 years specifically in a similar management role, leading technical teams.

Required Skills:

• Product Development Expertise: Proven experience and mastery in developing products for the aeronautical or automotive industries.
• Technical Proficiency: Solid understanding of mechanical design and numerical simulation (CFD, FEA) standards.
• Client Relationship Management: Demonstrated ability to manage relationships with internal stakeholders, understanding and meeting their engineering needs.
• Process & Performance Management: Strong capability in leading the performance of processes, projects, and teams.
• Problem-Solving Acumen: Proficiency in applying structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Change Management: Experience in navigating and leading teams through organizational or technological changes.
• Behavioral Competencies:
  • Leadership & Autonomy: Ability to take initiative, lead independently, and inspire teams.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Excellent relational, communication, and team animation skills.
  • Adaptability & Innovation: A strong inclination for innovation, adaptability to evolving technologies, and flexibility in approach.
  • Conflict & Stress Management: Effective skills in managing conflicts and high-pressure situations.
  • Negotiation & Persuasion: Strong negotiation and conviction abilities.
  • Curiosity: Natural curiosity for emerging technologies, including AI.
  • Team Cohesion: Capacity to unite, inspire, and foster the growth of team members.
  • Strategic Vision: A clear, structured, yet open-minded vision, embracing experimentation.
  • Entrepreneurial Spirit: A proactive, development-oriented mindset.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with international project coordination and cross-cultural team management.
• Familiarity with specific R&D project management frameworks.
• Knowledge of specific simulation software suites relevant to the automotive/aerospace industry.
• Exposure to lean manufacturing principles and their integration with design and engineering.

📝 Enhancement Note: The blend of technical, management, and soft skills is critical for this role. The emphasis on innovation, client satisfaction (internal), and international collaboration highlights the strategic importance of this position within the larger group structure.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Innovation Case Studies: Showcase examples of successfully implemented innovative projects, detailing the ideation process, technical challenges, and achieved outcomes.
• Process Optimization Examples: Demonstrate instances where you have analyzed, redesigned, or optimized engineering workflows, simulation processes, or product development lifecycles, highlighting efficiency gains.
• Project Management Documentation: Provide evidence of managing complex engineering projects, including project plans, risk assessments, budget tracking, and stakeholder communication artifacts.
• Team Development Initiatives: Include examples of strategies implemented to foster team growth, improve collaboration, and enhance technical skill sets within an engineering department.
• HSEEn Integration: Illustrate how you have integrated HSEEn principles into engineering design and project execution processes, demonstrating a commitment to safety and sustainability.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Evidence of creating clear, actionable documentation for engineering processes, from initial concept and R&D to final design and simulation, with a focus on optimization for speed and accuracy.
• System Implementation & Automation: Examples of implementing new engineering tools, software, or automation solutions to enhance design, simulation, or project management capabilities.
• Performance Measurement & Analysis: Documentation of how engineering team and project performance is tracked, analyzed, and reported, including the use of KPIs and metrics for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to present tangible evidence of their leadership in driving innovation, optimizing engineering processes, and managing technical projects. The portfolio should reflect a strategic approach to engineering management and a commitment to continuous improvement.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Head of Design & Engineering Services role with 10+ years of experience and significant management responsibilities in Tunisia, the estimated annual gross salary range is approximately TND 90,000 - TND 150,000. This estimate accounts for the seniority of the role, the strategic scope, and the cost of living in Sousse.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage for the employee and potentially dependents.
• Retirement Plan: Contributions to a pension or retirement savings scheme.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave, public holidays, and sick leave.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences.
• Performance Bonuses: Potential for discretionary bonuses tied to individual and company performance.
• Relocation Assistance: May be available for candidates relocating to Sousse.
• Company Vehicle: Potentially provided for business travel and site visits.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time workweek, likely 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility to accommodate project demands and international collaboration across different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is an estimate based on typical compensation for senior leadership roles in Tunisia, considering the IT/Engineering sector and the specific responsibilities. Actual compensation will be negotiated based on candidate experience and qualifications.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing (specifically within the Hutchinson Group, which specializes in seals, belts, fluid systems, etc., often serving automotive, aerospace, and industrial sectors). Company Size: Hutchinson Group is a large, international conglomerate. The specific tech center in Sousse likely employs several hundred to over a thousand individuals, with the engineering department being substantial. Founded: Hutchinson was founded in 1853. The Sousse tech center's establishment date is not specified but operates within this established industrial group.

Team Structure:

• Engineering Department: This role leads a significant engineering department, likely comprising multiple sub-teams focused on R&D, product design, simulation, tooling, and potentially specific technological areas.
• Reporting Structure: The Head of Design & Engineering Services will report to a senior executive, likely a Director of Technology, R&D, or Operations for the region or a specific business unit.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Close collaboration with Production, Quality, IT, HR, Sales (for internal client engagement), and other R&D centers within the Hutchinson group will be essential.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data from simulations, performance tests, and project outcomes to inform design and strategic decisions.
• Agile & Iterative Development: Likely adoption of agile or iterative methodologies for product development and innovation projects to ensure rapid prototyping and feedback integration.
• Lean Principles: Application of lean thinking to optimize engineering processes, reduce waste, and enhance efficiency.
• Collaborative Innovation: Fostering an environment where ideas are shared freely across teams and departments to drive collective problem-solving and innovation.

Company Website: https://www.hutchinson.com/ (Note: The provided URL was for Oracle's HCM system, not the company's public-facing website)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company operates within a large, established industrial group, suggesting a culture that values both tradition and innovation. The Sousse tech center likely serves as a crucial hub for R&D and specialized engineering services for the group.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership position, equivalent to a Director or VP level within a specific technical domain. It requires a strategic mindset, strong people management skills, and a deep understanding of engineering principles and their application in an industrial context.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a high-level executive within the organization and directly manages a substantial team of engineers and technical staff. This position holds significant influence over the technical direction and innovation capacity of the Sousse tech center.

Operations Impact: The Head of Design & Engineering Services plays a critical role in driving the technological advancement of the Hutchinson group. Their impact is measured by the successful development of new products and technologies, the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of engineering processes, the satisfaction of internal clients, and the overall innovation output of the tech center. This role directly contributes to the group's competitive edge and market positioning.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to expand the scope of responsibility to encompass additional technical domains, departments, or geographical regions within the Hutchinson group.
• Strategic Development: Opportunity to influence the long-term R&D strategy and technology roadmap for the organization.
• Executive Advancement: Clear path towards executive leadership positions within the Hutchinson group, potentially in areas like Chief Technology Officer (CTO) or Head of Global R&D.
• Specialization & Expertise: Deepen expertise in niche areas of engineering or emerging technologies, becoming a recognized authority within the industry.
• Mentorship & Coaching: Develop leadership capabilities through mentoring junior engineers and aspiring managers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant career step, offering substantial responsibility and impact. Growth is likely tied to demonstrating successful innovation, team development, and strategic contribution to the broader Hutchinson group's objectives.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a technical center or R&D facility, likely featuring a mix of office spaces for management and project planning, and laboratory/workshop areas for design, simulation, and prototyping.

Office Location(s): Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia. This location serves as the primary operational base for the engineering teams.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The environment is expected to foster collaboration, with open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and dedicated project spaces to facilitate interaction between engineering teams and with other departments.
• Advanced Technology: Access to state-of-the-art design software, simulation tools, prototyping equipment, and potentially advanced testing facilities.
• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with direct reports, peers in other departments, and senior management, creating a dynamic and engaging work atmosphere.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour workweek is typical, the demands of international project management and innovation initiatives may necessitate flexibility, including occasional extended hours or remote work to coordinate with global teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The workspace is designed to support innovation and technical execution, emphasizing collaboration and the use of advanced engineering tools. Flexibility will be key to managing global operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter to assess alignment with the core requirements, experience, and qualifications.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion focusing on your leadership philosophy, management style, experience in leading engineering teams, and strategic vision for innovation. Portfolio examples will be requested here.
• Technical & Situational Assessment: This may involve case studies, problem-solving exercises related to engineering challenges, or presentations of past projects to evaluate technical acumen and decision-making abilities.
• Cross-Functional Team Interview: An opportunity to meet with key stakeholders from production, quality, or other departments to assess collaboration skills and understanding of internal client needs.
• Senior Leadership Interview: A final discussion with a senior executive to evaluate strategic fit, cultural alignment, and overall leadership potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio by key responsibility areas (e.g., Team Leadership, Innovation, Project Successes, Process Improvement).
• Quantify Achievements: For each project or initiative, clearly state the problem, your solution, the actions taken, and the quantifiable results (e.g., % reduction in cycle time, % improvement in product performance, cost savings, successful market launch).
• Showcase Innovation: Highlight projects that demonstrate creative problem-solving, the adoption of new technologies, or the development of novel solutions.
• Demonstrate Leadership: Include examples of how you have mentored teams, resolved conflicts, and fostered a positive and productive work environment.
• Tailor to Hutchinson: Research Hutchinson's core products and markets. Frame your experience and portfolio examples to show how your skills directly benefit their operations and strategic goals.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate Technical Scenarios: Be prepared for questions on mechanical design, simulation best practices, R&D project management, and common challenges in automotive/aerospace product development.
• Prepare Leadership Scenarios: Think about how you would handle team conflicts, motivate underperforming individuals, drive innovation, and manage stakeholder expectations.
• HSEEn Focus: Be ready to discuss your approach to ensuring safety and environmental compliance within an engineering context.
• Strategic Thinking: Prepare to discuss your vision for the future of engineering services at the tech center and how you would align with Hutchinson's global strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to be comprehensive, assessing not only technical expertise but also leadership, strategic thinking, and cultural fit. A well-prepared portfolio is crucial for demonstrating past successes and future potential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Expertise in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor) for product design and mechanical modeling.
• CAE/Simulation Software: Proficiency with simulation tools such as ANSYS, COMSOL, Siemens NX (for Nastran, Simcenter), or similar for Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and other forms of numerical simulation.
• PLM Systems: Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems (e.g., Siemens Teamcenter, Dassault Systèmes ENOVIA) for managing product data and workflows.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Project Management Software: Tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or Primavera for planning, tracking, and managing engineering projects.
• Data Analysis Tools: Familiarity with tools for data analysis and visualization, such as Microsoft Excel (advanced features), Power BI, or Tableau, to interpret performance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or other internal communication and collaboration suites.
• ERP Systems: Basic understanding of how engineering integrates with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems for materials, production, and cost management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with advanced CAD and CAE/simulation software is non-negotiable. Experience with PLM systems is highly desirable for managing complex product development lifecycles.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Excellence: A drive to push technological boundaries and achieve the highest standards in design and engineering.
• Collaboration & Synergy: A commitment to teamwork, open communication, and cross-functional partnership to achieve collective goals.
• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for projects, outcomes, and continuous improvement of processes and team performance.
• Integrity & Safety: Upholding the highest ethical standards and prioritizing the safety and well-being of all employees and the environment (HSEEn).
• Customer Focus (Internal): Dedication to understanding and meeting the needs of other Hutchinson group entities.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Engagement: Encouraging team members to proactively engage with other departments and external partners to foster strong working relationships and shared understanding.
• Constructive Feedback: Cultivating an environment where constructive feedback is welcomed and used for continuous improvement of designs, processes, and team dynamics.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting open sharing of technical knowledge, best practices, and lessons learned across teams and projects.
• Mentorship: Actively encouraging senior engineers to mentor junior staff, facilitating skill transfer and career development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a blend of technical rigor, innovative spirit, and strong interpersonal collaboration, all within the framework of a large industrial group's operational standards.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Production Demands: Effectively managing the dual mandate of driving cutting-edge innovation while ensuring the timely delivery of robust engineering solutions for current production needs.
• International Coordination: Navigating the complexities of working with diverse teams and stakeholders across different time zones and cultural backgrounds within the Hutchinson group.
• Talent Acquisition & Retention: Attracting and retaining top engineering talent in a competitive market, particularly in specialized fields.
• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in AI, simulation techniques, and new materials, and integrating them effectively into R&D processes.
• Resource Optimization: Maximizing the impact of engineering resources (budget, personnel, equipment) to achieve strategic objectives.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technology Training: Access to specialized training in cutting-edge simulation software, AI applications in engineering, advanced materials, and new design methodologies.
• Leadership Development Programs: Participation in executive leadership training and mentorship programs offered by the Hutchinson Group.
• Industry Conferences & Forums: Opportunities to attend and present at international engineering and technology conferences to stay abreast of industry trends and network with peers.
• Cross-Functional Rotations: Potential for short-term assignments or collaborative projects with other departments or global R&D centers to broaden understanding and experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that are integral to driving innovation and growth, offering substantial opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the global Hutchinson organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your philosophy for fostering innovation within an engineering team. How do you balance exploration with the need for practical, deliverable solutions?"
  • Preparation: Prepare specific examples of innovation initiatives you've led, the metrics you've used to track success, and how you’ve managed the inherent risks.
• "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration between your engineering teams and other departments such as Production, Quality, and IT, especially when managing internal client relationships?"
  • Preparation: Outline your strategies for stakeholder management, conflict resolution, and building cross-functional alignment.
• "Walk me through a complex engineering project you managed from conception to completion. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the ultimate impact?"
  • Preparation: Select a project that showcases your leadership, technical problem-solving, and project management skills. Be ready to discuss budgets, timelines, and team dynamics.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Hutchinson's core business and its position in the automotive/aerospace/industrial markets? How do you see engineering services supporting these areas?"
  • Preparation: Thoroughly research Hutchinson's products, markets, recent news, and strategic priorities.
• "How would you approach building and maintaining a high-performing, collaborative engineering team in an international context?"
  • Preparation: Discuss your leadership style, team-building strategies, and experience with diverse workforces.
• "How do you measure the success and impact of an engineering department, both in terms of technical output and business contribution?"
  • Preparation: Be ready to discuss KPIs, ROI calculations for R&D projects, and how engineering contributes to the company's bottom line.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio items as compelling stories with a clear beginning (challenge), middle (your actions/leadership), and end (results/impact).
• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise visuals (diagrams, charts, product renderings) to illustrate your points. Ensure they are professional and easy to understand.
• Quantify Everything: Wherever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate the scale and impact of your work (e.g., "reduced design cycle time by 20%", "increased product efficiency by 15%", "managed a budget of X million TND").
• Focus on Relevance: Prioritize showcasing projects and achievements that are most relevant to Hutchinson's industries and the requirements of this role.
• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate detailed questions about your projects and be ready to elaborate on specific technical or managerial decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is rigorous and designed to assess a candidate's holistic capabilities. Strong preparation, a well-curated portfolio, and clear articulation of strategic thinking are essential for success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Head of Design & Engineering Services position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud portal link.
• Resume & Cover Letter Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in mechanical engineering, product development (automotive/aerospace), simulation, team leadership, and innovation. Craft a compelling cover letter that specifically addresses how your skills and experience align with Hutchinson's needs and the strategic goals of the Sousse tech center.
• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a professional portfolio that showcases your most impactful projects, demonstrating your leadership, technical expertise, process optimization skills, and ability to drive innovation. Be ready to present key case studies that highlight quantifiable achievements.
• Company & Industry Research: Deeply research Hutchinson, its products, its markets, and its strategic direction. Understand the role of its tech centers and R&D functions within the global group.
• Interview Practice: Practice articulating your leadership philosophy, technical approach, and project management methodologies. Prepare to discuss how you would address the specific challenges and opportunities outlined in this job description.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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