R&D Land & Air Manager

R&D Land & Air Manager

As the inaugural R&D Land & Air Manager, you will have the unique opportunity to establish and lead a new R&D function in close link with the Businesses of the Group.

R&D Robotics Scope

The R&D Robotics scope covers all logistics activities at CEVA Logistics, including Air, Ocean, Ground & Rail, Finished Vehicle Logistics, and Contract Logistics, with a particular emphasis on contract logistics as well as supporting other research entities of the group for shipping, port terminals, and air logistics.

The areas of application may include Goods Handling, Warehousing, Transportation, and Monitoring & Surveillance. We aim to leverage technologies such as AGVs, Exoskeletons, Robots/Cobots, Extended Reality, and Automated & autonomous Vehicles/Drones, decision aiding-tool, OCR, vision recognition, AI, etc.

This position requires strong project leadership and management skills, a solid background in robotics technologies and AI technology. Knowledge of logistics, supply chain, and automation is a real plus.

What are you going to do?

• Create a team & supervise projects delivery in its field: build a team from start, adopt the CMA CGM practices and procedures. Deliver on quick wins as well as mid and long-term strategy. Shape a strategy for each asset. Work with multiple cultures of the R&D Group (French, India/Asia). At ease with finance & subsidies, IP, risk management.
• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement an R&D strategy on Automation & Robotics aligned with CMA CGM and CEVA's global objectives.
• Research and Development: Lead research on new technologies to enhance logistics operations via robotics. Conduct research and stay updated on industry trends and advancements.
• Roadmap Execution: Develop and refine an R&D roadmap for Robotics.
• Stakeholder Communication: Present R&D progress and innovations to key stakeholders for its field of research.
• Partnership Development: Establish strategic partnerships with external stakeholders for its scope.

Who are we looking for?

• Master of Science’s degree or Engineering school degree applied to Robotics (with a focus on logistics, supply chain, automation or related fields).
• Minimum of 10 years in engineering, business development, strategy, or a similar role within the shipping, logistics, or port industry. Previous experience in creating and leading new initiatives and teams from scratch is highly valued.
• Proven success in leading and executing complex R&D projects, with a focus on innovation and technological advancements.
• Ability to adapt and embrace new ideas, methodologies, and technologies in the ever‑evolving logistics industry.
• Ability to work effectively in a matrix organization and influence cross‑functional teams.
• Capacity to establish and maintain strategic partnerships with external stakeholders.
• Proven track record of successfully leading and executing complex projects.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills in a multi‑cultural environment.