Director of R&D for a Software Company Job Description
A director of research and development (R&D) manages a team of individuals who develop products for a software company. Often partnering with the marketing and finance divisions, this individual ensures his employer's place in the market by creating marketable products that fall in line with the mission of the company.
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Project Management
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The director of research and development oversees the planning and execution of all projects. This includes balancing and coordinating priorities, assigning duties to team members and ensuring that all deadlines are met.
Interdepartmental Interaction
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In order to effectively create successful products, a director of research and development must successfully partner with various other departments of the firm, such as marketing, customer service and finance.
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Managing Staff
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As the leader of a department, a director of research and development manages a group of employees. He recruits, trains and provides performance management as needed.
Education Required
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Although not all organizations--particularly smaller, entrepreneurial ones--require their employees to possess degrees, directors are commonly required to possess at least a bachelor's degree to obtain employment. Graduate schooling is often preferred.
Technical Requirements
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Research and development managers oversee a variety of technology professionals, including programmers, graphic designers and testers. As a result, these professionals must be versed in a variety of computer systems, databases and languages.
Average Salary
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In 2010, Salary.com reported that the average research and development director employed in the United States of America earns an annual salary of $174,734.
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References
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