Director of Product Innovation & Head of UK Innovation Centre
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Zotefoams plc is a world leader in cellular material technology, headquartered in Croydon, UK, with additional manufacturing sites in Kentucky, USA; Brzeg, Poland; Oklahoma, USA; and Jiangsu Province, China. We produce lightweight foams for markets including sports and leisure, aviation, automotive and healthcare, and own patents and licensed technology for advanced insulation systems. The company is on a fast growth path with ambitious plans for the near future.
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Director of Product Innovation & Head of UK Innovation Centre to lead the strategic direction and daily operations of our Innovation Centre in Croydon. This role shapes the product development pipeline and translates innovation into measurable commercial success. You will lead a team of scientists and technologists, align projects with market opportunities, and drive long-term growth through new product development.
Responsibilities
* Ensure safe, compliant, and efficient operation of the UK Innovation Centre.
* Lead, manage, and develop the Product Innovation team to deliver against business and innovation targets.
* Drive revenue growth through new products, contributing to the 5-Year Vitality Index.
* Collaborate cross-functionally to strengthen commercialisation effectiveness.
* Manage the Innovation Centre budget, allocating resources to high-priority projects.
* Shape and manage the product innovation portfolio in collaboration with global Innovation and Commercial teams.
* Stay ahead of emerging materials, technologies, and processes in polymer/plastics processing and foaming.
* Protect and manage Intellectual Property arising from new product development.
What you'll need
* Proven leadership in innovation, R&D, or product development in materials science or polymers.
* Track record of delivering commercially successful products through structured development.
* Deep technical knowledge of plastics processing, materials behavior, and foaming technologies.
* Experience leading multi-disciplinary teams and collaborating with commercial stakeholders.
* Strategic thinker able to align technical innovation with business needs.
* Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline.
What we're looking for
* A confident and experienced leader with the courage to drive change.
* Commercially minded and results-focused, with a track record of delivering growth through innovation.
* Inclusive and collaborative, with strong people leadership skills.
* Curious and innovative, staying at the forefront of materials and processing technology.
Why Join Us
At Zotefoams, we foster a supportive and innovative environment where everybody can thrive. By joining us, you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, continuous improvement, and opportunities for professional growth and development.
Our Values
* Courage - The courage to take bold action to succeed.
* Impact – Making a significant and positive impact in everything we do.
* Respect - A respectful and inclusive environment where everyone is valued.
Zotefoams is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Job details
* Seniority level: Director
* Employment type: Full-time
* Job function: Product Management and Marketing
* Industries: Plastics Manufacturing
Location: Cambridge, England, United Kingdom
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