Global R&D Lead, Energy Storage Systems, Traction

At ABB, we help industries run leaner and cleaner—and every person here makes that happen. You’ll be empowered to lead, supported to grow, and proud of the impact we create together. Join us and help run what runs the world.

This position reports to:

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Business and Division Description

ABB Traction plays a critical role in shaping the future of electrified mobility. Through our traction battery packs and energy storage solutions, we enable customers globally to achieve higher efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in rail and off highway applications. We combine global scale with strong local execution to deliver performance, innovation, and long-term value.

Location

This role is open globally for ABB employees, but location is set in Switzerland. The work model is hybrid #LI-hybrid.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the newly established ESS R&D organization together with the team leaders and around 30 individual contributors – aligned with the Division and Product Line strategy

• Establish technical thought-leadership and expertise in all relevant disciplines spanning from battery cells to battery systems – nurture an innovation pipeline to stay ahead of the competition

• Own the ESS R&D budget and manage technology roadmaps, projects, and priorities in close alignment with the ESS product management function.

• Establish a strong outside-in and customer-oriented culture aligned with the ABB values, courage, care, curiosity and collaboration

• Build, develop and maintain strong relationships with all relevant internal and external stakeholders – ensure clarity at the interfaces to other functions, such as engineering, production and supply chain management

• Take full responsibility for a safe working environment and for the correct implementation of guidelines and processes.

Qualifications

• Master degree in a STEM discipline

• Proven direct leadership skills, with a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach and strong communication skills

• Experience in leading product or platform development in the field of propulsion or battery energy storage systems

• Knowledge of industry standards and development processes relevant to railway and e-mobility applications

• A high level of self-motivation, ownership, curiosity, and strong drive to stay one inch ahead

• Must be fluent in English, fluency in German a strong plus

• Candidates from the Traction Division will be given preferential consideration

What’s in it for you?

We give you the space to lead, the support to grow, and the chance to make a difference. Whether you're solving problems, building something new, or helping others succeed, your impact is real. You’ll be part of a team that values your voice and celebrates your progress. The position reports to the Head of the Product Line ESS.

Call to action

Join us. Be part of the team where progress happens, industries transform, and your work shapes the world. Run What Runs the World.

Building a cleaner, smarter future takes all kinds of minds: the curious, the courageous, and the creative. That's why we welcome people from all backgrounds and experiences.

Ready to make an impact?

Apply today or visit https://www.abb.com to learn more about the impact of our solutions across the globe.