Existing literature suggests that capability building is the primary motive behind the R&D internationalisation of emerging market (EM) firms. The literature, however, has not adequately examined the impact the top management team's (TMT) composition on R&D internationalisation. Building on the upper echelon theory, this study investigates the effect of the TMT's international exposure on an EM firm's decision to set up R&D centres overseas in advanced economies. The study also explores the moderating role of the CEO-age mechanism on this relationship. Data from a sample of 170 firms from 11 EMs over a six-year period indicate that TMT composition has a positive impact on the capability-building strategy of EM firms. Experience in international settings enables managers to explore technology and acquire greater foreign knowledge, while the CEO-age does not moderate the relationship observed between a TMT's international exposure and its foreign R&D centre.