Job Description
A leading global advanced materials and energy solutions provider is seeking an innovation-minded and commercially-astute Sr. Manager Global Research & Development to join their international team. This is a globally-renowned industrial technology organization that provides integrated solutions to a variety of process, material and energy markets. As they explore future growth markets with an established and constantly expanding portfolio, they are seeking a strong technical leader to continue supporting growth in one of their core product areas.
This global leader in advanced materials offers highly-customised solutions to some of the most innovative, world leading chemical, petrochemical, polymer and process engineering companies worldwide. They continue to expand their offering of advanced material solutions, and have a strong footprint in core applications like polymer production and plastic additives, as well as emerging markets such sustainable fuels, carbon capture and utilization, and bio-catalysis. This is an established player in the market, that is agile and well-positioned to adapt to the current materials market challenges.
In this role you will proactively lead the global research and development strategy for polymer catalysts, operating with full technical ownership and accountability. You will be responsible for leading a team of 7 highly-qualified R&D professionals in translating deep customer insight, application knowledge, and market intelligence into high-impact product development programs to accelerate innovation.
The position will have a strong external customer-facing component, where you must act as a trusted partner to high-level customers across multiple industries to influence specifications, enable co-development, lead plant trials, and support long term business engagements. An experienced product development leader who has both technical credentials and strong commercial awareness will thrive in this role. You must be a key interface between R&D, Manufacturing, and Sales, and confidently translate demand into tangible development projects.
If you have a strong Project Management background in chemical R&D, extensive knowledge around polymer catalysis, and wish to join a well-resourced and growing business where you can have a real impact, then this could be a great opportunity for you.
For this position, it is essential you have:
* PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or similar.
* Around 15 years’ experience in development of polyolefin catalysts.
* Significant (typically 10+ years) experience in Project Management of R&D/ Innovation pipeline projects, as well as deep knowledge on IP management (JDAs, NDAs, etc).
* Hands on exposure to the development of CrOx, Ziegler-Natta or metallocene catalyst systems.
* Demonstrated track record of leading Product Development projects from concept, through R&D to contracting and tangible commercial outcomes.
* The ability to travel regularly between the US and Europe, as well as occasional wider travel to APAC.
* High-EQ leadership style, creating a culture of accountability around both innovation and commercial outcomes. Demonstrated ability to develop and mentor highly specialised technical teams.
* Willingness to spend substantial time (>25%) on direct customer interaction..
* Collaborative, entrepreneurial outlook giving you the ability to build trust and influence at all levels within and outside the organisation.
* The ability to live and work in the UK with no visa sponsorship.
This position is based on site 3-4 days per week, with remote working for 1-2 days per week. The position can be based in either the US or UK location - the other location job posting can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4387802653/?pathWildcard=4387802653&trk=mcm
Please either apply directly or get in touch at oliver.davies@southall-sage.com for a confidential discussion about the position.