We are seeking an experienced R&D Team Leader to join our Bolton site and lead innovation within our Fire Protection Coatings portfolio. You will manage a team of technical experts and drive product development and optimization, ensuring alignment with business, customer, and regulatory requirements.
The role involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders, including customers and certification bodies.
Product & Technology Development
1. Drive innovation and optimisation of fire protection coatings, including formulation improvements
2. Plan and execute R&D projects in line with timelines, quality, and certification standards
3. Analyse results and provide clear recommendations to progress projects
Operational & Technical Support
4. Provide technical expertise to internal teams and customers
5. Support testing, certification, and represent the company externally
6. Lead investigations into product performance and maintain lab capabilities
People Leadership
7. Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing R&D team
8. Set clear goals, manage performance, and foster a collaborative culture
Safety, Quality & Compliance
9. Ensure compliance with H&S, quality, and laboratory standards
10. Promote technical excellence and professional conduct
Continuous Improvement & Collaboration
11. Support process improvements and cross-functional initiatives
12. Share knowledge and contribute to innovation across the organisation
13. BSc in Chemistry (or equivalent higher education qualification)
14. Experience leading technical teams or managing R&D projects
15. Proven track record of delivering commercially relevant results
16. At least 5 years experience in coatings industry
17. Experience in Passive Fire Protection (advantageous)
18. Ability to engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders
19. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
20. Flexibility and willingness to engage in occasional travel globally as required
Why Join Us?
At Sherwin-Williams, you’ll be part of a global leader in coatings innovation, working on cutting-edge fire protection technologies that make a real impact on safety and performance worldwide.
This vacancy is advertised exclusively for internal candidates, with a closing date of Friday 29th May.
***Please be aware that you can apply for any internal job offer after minimum one year in current role having previously informed your manager.
Please read the guidelines before handing in your application
All internal employees when applying for a role are required to upload their updated and their last 2 appraisals (which can be retrieved from HR Cloud).