Technical Manager
Up to £75,000 + Excellent Benefits
Permanent role, however an Interim / Day Rate Considered – Immediate Requirement
Are you a degree-qualified Chemist or Technical Manager with strong R&D, product development and manufacturing experience?
Do you thrive in fast-paced technical environments where you can influence innovation, improve manufacturing processes and play a key role in business growth?
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Technical Manager, R&D Manager, Senior Technologist or Product Development Manager to join a growing manufacturing business at an exciting stage of development. The business is looking to hire ASAP and is open to both permanent candidates and experienced interim consultants operating on a day-rate basis.
This is a highly visible, hands-on leadership role suited to someone with a strong chemistry background who enjoys technical problem solving, product innovation and cross-functional collaboration within manufacturing environments.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead R&D and technical development projects across multiple product lines
* Drive new product development, formulation development, product testing and continuous improvement initiatives
* Manage product performance, technical validation, compliance and certification activities
* Provide technical leadership across manufacturing, production, quality, supply chain and commercial teams
* Support process improvement, troubleshooting and manufacturing efficiency projects within a fast-paced production environment
* Coordinate laboratory testing, product trials and external certification programmes
* Support technical analysis, product performance investigations and development activities
* Work closely with customers, suppliers and industry stakeholders to strengthen technical credibility and support commercial growth
* Lead technical innovation projects, material development initiatives and patent-related activities
* Manage technical project plans, priorities, budgets and departmental performance
* Support implementation of modern manufacturing technologies, AI tools and continuous improvement processes
* Mentor and develop a small technical and quality team
Skills & Experience Required
* Degree qualified in Chemistry – ESSENTIAL
* Additional qualifications or experience within Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or Product Development would be highly advantageous
* Proven experience within a Technical Manager, R&D Manager, Product Development Manager, Senior Technologist, Development Chemist or similar technical leadership role
* Strong background in manufacturing, technical products, industrial materials, coatings, polymers, packaging, construction products or related sectors
* Experience leading R&D programmes, formulation development and technical innovation projects
* Experience with product testing, certification, compliance and quality management systems
* Commercially aware with the ability to support business growth, innovation and product strategy
* Strong leadership, project management and stakeholder management skills
* Hands-on, proactive and solutions-driven approach within a manufacturing environment
* Dynamic, forward-thinking mindset with a passion for innovation, continuous improvement and technology
Why Apply?
This is a rare opportunity to join a growing business where you will have genuine autonomy, visibility and influence across technical strategy, product development and operational improvement.
Benefits
* Salary up to £75,000
* Interim / Day Rate Option Available
* Immediate Start Available
* 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays + Additional Company Days
* Private Healthcare
* BUPA Cash Plan
* Life Insurance
* Enhanced Pension Scheme
* Attendance Bonus
* Profit-Related Bonus
* Training & Development Support
* Smart Health / Virtual GP Access
* Long Service Awards
This role would suit candidates from backgrounds including:
Technical Manager | R&D Manager | Senior Technologist | Development Chemist | Polymer Chemist | Materials Scientist | Product Development Manager | Chemical Engineer | Manufacturing Technologist | Innovation Manager | Technical Services Manager
Your CV will be forwarded to Jonathan Lee Recruitment, a leading engineering and manufacturing recruitment consultancy established in 1978. The services advertised by Jonathan Lee Recruitment are those of an Employment Agency.
In order for your CV to be processed effectively, please ensure your name, email address, phone number and location (post code OR town OR county, as a minimum) are included.