Job Description
Research & Development Manager
Location: North West UK (Hybrid)
Salary: £Competitive + Bonus + Excellent Benefits
About the Company
Our client is a UK-wide leader in specialist cladding and façade solutions, providing full-service expertise from concept design to precision manufacturing and on-site installation. With a commitment to delivering architecturally striking and high-performance exterior systems, the business works across a diverse range of materials to bring cutting-edge solutions to the built environment.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking R&D Manager to lead the research and development function, with a focus on continuous product innovation and performance optimisation. This is a pivotal role responsible for evolving the company’s product offering, enhancing sustainability, and ensuring full compliance with industry regulations. You will drive the development of new façade and cladding systems and refine existing products to meet emerging market demands.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic R&D Leadership: Establish and embed a structured R&D process to take ideas from initial concept through to commercial launch.
Product Innovation: Spearhead the design and development of next- cladding and façade solutions that align with modern architectural needs and sustainability targets.
Continuous Improvement: Analyse product performance data, installation feedback, and maintenance trends to implement targeted improvements.
Budget Oversight: Manage the R&D budget effectively, prioritising initiatives that deliver the highest return on investment.
Team Development: Lead, mentor, and support the in-house R&D team, ensuring clear objectives and high-quality output.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work alongside marketing, business development, and technical teams to identify market opportunities and shape product strategy.
Supplier Engagement: Partner with the supply chain to evaluate new materials, improve manufacturing processes, and drive innovation.
Sustainable Design: Champion the use of environmentally responsible methods, including recyclable and low-carbon materials.
Compliance & Testing: Oversee rigorous testing across fire, acoustic, thermal, structural, and installation performance, ensuring all products meet or exceed regulatory standards.
Documentation & Technical Assets: Maintain comprehensive technical documentation and manage the CAD asset library to support design and marketing efforts.
Regulatory Support: Assist finance and compliance teams with R&D tax credits and related reporting.
About You – Key Requirements
Proven experience leading R&D functions, ideally within the construction or façade/cladding industry.
Deep understanding of cladding and façade materials, with a strong focus on aluminium and complementary materials like timber, glass, steel, and composites.
Sound knowledge of relevant building regulations, compliance testing protocols, and industry standards.
Experience in budget management and delivering value-driven innovation projects.
Confident leadership and mentoring capabilities, with strong project management and planning skills.
Technically proficient in CAD and the preparation of supporting documentation.
Skilled at building relationships across departments, and liaising with external stakeholders, including suppliers and regulatory bodies.
LinkedIn Business: www.linkedin.com/company/executive -recruit
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