Founded in 1946 we have grown to become a global specialty chemicals company that is a leading manufacturer of protective materials for high-reliability applications across diverse market sectors.
Today we employ nearly 800 people and continue to grow and strengthen our business by employing a related diversification strategy that combines organic growth initiatives with strategic acquisitions.
Based in Westwood, Massachusetts, USA we operate manufacturing facilities in the United States, Europe, and Asia and continue to invest in our capabilities in order to deliver value to our global customer base demands.
In November 2023, Chase Corporation joined KKR’s portfolio of companies, granting every employee an ownership stake. To learn more about the KKR Industrials team and its innovative approach to employee engagement and ownership, visit the KKR Industrials LinkedIn page or YouTube channel, where you can find videos showcasing how this model is implemented across various portfolio companies.
Role Overview
The R&D Group Lead will oversee a small team responsible for the development of liquid-applied coatings, pressure-sensitive tapes, and membranes for the Corrosion Protection & Waterproofing business unit. This role manages New Product Development (NPD) projects, ensuring they meet performance criteria, timelines, and commercialization goals. The Group Lead will also play a key role in R&D leadership, collaborating cross-functionally with Sales, Marketing, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain to support innovation and business growth.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, mentor, and develop the Corrosion Protection & Waterproofing R&D team.
* Oversee new product development, scale-up, and field testing, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
* Manage project timelines, adjusting priorities as needed to meet strict deadlines.
* Support cross-functional collaboration in technology transfer, pilot plant trials, and commercialization efforts.
Technical Expertise & Innovation
* Apply expertise in polyurethane, epoxy, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and other coatings technologies.
* Support the sourcing and qualification of new raw materials.
* Work in close association with Sales, Marketing, Supply chain and Operations teams.
* Identify and assess potential new product development opportunities with Marketing and Commercial teams.
Manufacturing & Quality Support
* Assist Operations and Quality teams across multiple manufacturing sites (travel: 10-25%).
* Ensure adherence to ISO 9001 quality standards and participate in internal, external, and customer audits.
* Promote and uphold safety standards at the Westwood R&D site.
Strategic & Cross-Functional Leadership
* Participate in R&D leadership initiatives to drive continuous improvement.
* Track and report Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and project updates to senior leadership.
* Engage in cross-functional work teams within Chase business units.
Qualifications
* Minimum 5 years of experience leading R&D teams and managing product development projects.
* Strong knowledge of coatings, adhesives, and regulatory standards.
* Experience with Stage Gate processes and project management methodologies.
* Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
* Willingness to travel (up to 25%) for manufacturing support and product trials.
Education
* Master’s or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or equivalent industry experience
Seniority level
* Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
* Employment type
Full-time
Job function
* Job function
Science, Manufacturing, and Engineering
* Industries
Paint, Coating, and Adhesive Manufacturing and Chemical Manufacturing
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Inferred from the description for this job
Medical insurance
Vision insurance
401(k)
Paid maternity leave
Paid paternity leave
Disability insurance
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