Principal R&D Operations Manager

The Principal R&D Operations Manager manages the processes that turn Fusable’s portfolio strategy into consistent, predictable execution across Product, Engineering, and Data. The role focuses on three areas: SDLC management, Commercial Interlock management, and financial and monthly R&D reporting. Across each, the Principal builds appropriate governance into how work is planned, approved, delivered, and reported, partnering closely with Product, Engineering, Finance, Sales, Marketing, and Customer Success leaders. 

Portfolio Execution & Governance 

• Translate portfolio strategy into an executable R&D operating plan across product lines. 

• Establish R&D governance: decision rights, approval gates, and operating cadences. 

• Manage the end-to-end SDLC process, from intake through release. 

• Operationalize the planning hierarchy (Build Programs, Epics, Features, Stories) and its approval gates. 

• Standardize handoffs between Product Management, Product Owners, Design, and Engineering. 

• Administer Asana, Jira, and Confluence so they reflect the process and produce reliable delivery data. 

Commercial Interlock 

• Manage the Commercial Interlock process that aligns Product, Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Customer Success from roadmap to revenue. 

• Facilitate SKU approval so pricing, packaging, and revenue mapping are agreed before launch. 

• Maintain the release calendar and coordinate launch readiness across the owning teams. 

• Clarify ownership and decision rights, escalating cross-functional conflicts to leadership. 

Financial & Monthly R&D Reporting 

• Own monthly R&D reporting on spend vs. budget, capacity, delivery, and risk. 

• Partner with Finance on R&D budgeting and forecasting. 

• Manage R&D capitalization tracking so CapEx/OpEx treatment is documented. 

• Link R&D investment to adoption, retention, and revenue outcomes. 

• Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, engineering, computer science, or a related field. 

• 8+ years in R&D, engineering, or product operations, or a PMO, in a software or data business. 

• Proven experience managing an SDLC across multiple product and engineering teams. 

• Administrator-level experience with Asana, Jira, and the Atlassian suite. 

• Working knowledge of R&D budgeting, forecasting, and software capitalization. 

• Experience running a go-to-market or commercial readiness process. 

• Strong analytical and communication skills; able to influence senior leaders without formal authority. 

Preferred Skills 

• Scrum and agile delivery experience; CSM, PSM, or SAFe certification a plus. 

• SaaS or data business experience, including subscription metrics such as ARR, retention, and renewal. 

• Experience introducing process change while work is in flight. 

• A pragmatic view of governance: controls that inform decisions, not paperwork. 

Success in This Role 

Success is measured by consistent, predictable execution of the R&D portfolio against plan: an SDLC that teams follow, a Commercial Interlock that brings launches to market with every function aligned, and monthly reporting that gives leadership an accurate view of spend, capacity, and delivery. 

We believe in taking care of our team. Fusable provides a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees, which may include medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401(k)-retirement plan; paid time off; paid holidays; and life and disability insurance. Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and applicable plan terms. A complete description of compensation, incentive opportunities, and benefits will be provided to qualified applicants during the hiring process. 

Every team member also enjoys: 

• Flexible work schedules
• Generous Paid Time Off
• 13 Paid Company holiday observances
• Remote work opportunities
• A casual dress work environment
• Physical fitness reimbursement
• Discounts on various events, travel, and dining

Equal Employment Opportunity  

Fusable is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in all employment practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, age, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.  

Disclaimer:  

Fusable is committed to equitable compensation practices and complies with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations. For jurisdictions that require pay scale disclosure, a general compensation range may be provided during the initial stages of the interview process. Final compensation will be based on multiple factors including experience, skills, certifications, and overall fit for the role.  

Pay Transparency: 

$175,000 to $195,000 annually  

The base salary or hourly range listed above represents the good faith estimate of the compensation Fusable reasonably expects to pay for this position upon hire. Actual compensation packages are individualized and determined by various factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s geographic location, relevant experience, internal equity, certifications, education, qualifications, specific skill set, and Fusable’s business needs. Additional compensation may include bonuses and equity.