Product Director

About Fortress Safety

Fortress Safety is dedicated to saving lives through the delivery of superior safety solutions. Since 1977, we have been experts in machinery safety and interlocking, serving global markets including the USA, Europe, Australia, China, and India. Based in Wolverhampton and part of the FTSE 100 group Halma plc, we emphasize creativity, innovation, continuous improvement, diversity, environmental responsibility, and community engagement.

Role Overview

The Product Director role offers a unique board-level leadership opportunity to guide the strategic direction and scaling of our global safety technology business. Taking ownership of the worldwide product strategy, you will balance immediate delivery needs with long-term value creation.

Primary Responsibilities

• Define and lead a multi-year global product vision that aligns with Fortress Safety’s growth objectives.
• Serve on the Fortress Board, influencing overarching business strategies and priorities.
• Maintain full accountability for the existing and future product portfolio.
• Lead and nurture global teams spanning Product Management, Research & Development, and Safety Services.
• Provide strategic oversight for R&D, ensuring activities align with roadmaps, customer demands, and long-range goals from concept through production.
• Collaborate closely with Innovation, Operations, Sales, and Halma’s broader network.
• Turn comprehensive customer insights, market dynamics, and regulatory criteria into innovative, differentiated solutions.
• Manage trade-offs between short-term project delivery and long-term platform/capability enhancement.
• Promote organizational commitment to safety, quality, and ongoing improvement.
• Work across regions and functions to foster sustainable growth.

Candidate Requirements

• Demonstrated leadership of intricate, engineered or technical product portfolios within regulated industries.
• Strong commercial and financial insight capable of linking strategy with execution.
• Proven history of driving growth in dynamic, international enterprises.
• Experience working effectively at senior or board level, with influence and constructive challenge skills.
• Effective communicator of complex technical and regulatory subjects.
• Global perspective with multi-geography operational experience.
• Low-ego, high-impact leadership approach favoring decisive action.
• Degree-level education or equivalent professional background.
• Preparedness for international travel as necessary.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive executive base salary ranging from £100,000 to £110,000 plus car allowance.
• Eligibility to participate in Halma’s director-level incentive scheme comprising equity and cash rewards.
• 25 days annual leave plus UK public holidays.
• Attractive pension contribution plans.
• Company car or allowance provision.
• Generous parental leave offering 14 weeks of full pay.
• Comprehensive healthcare and insurance coverage.
• Access to Employee Assistance Program and recognition for extended service.

Inclusion and Accessibility

We embrace diversity and strive to maintain an inclusive workplace that enables all colleagues to thrive. Accommodations are available for candidates requiring adjustments during recruitment.

Additional Details

• Location: Wolverhampton with hybrid work model (approximately 3 days onsite per week).
• Employment type: Permanent, full-time.