£45,000 very flexible basic Salary + 33 days holiday

A genuine opportunity for an analytical and methodical R&D Manager (ideally with a Polymers or Coatings background) to become our Technical Manger or Director within c.7 years.   Very flexible open starting Salary dependant on individual experience.

Located in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, the position will provide real ‘value added’ professional and technical support in the research and development of a number of established and new product areas at a time of considerable growth. This role would suit someone with a “pure” chemist background and with an excellent track record in product development.

Reporting to the Technical Director, successful candidates will qualified to a high level in Chemistry, coupled with at least 5 years practical industrial experience in a similar setting. You will be able to display a “best in class” approach to product development and not afraid to take the lead in what is a ‘hands on role’.

We would be particularly interested in candidates with experience working with Polymers or Coatings.

The Role:

• Lead in the development and formulation of existing and ‘new’ product areas from conception through to commercial acceptance;
• Evaluate technical complexities of new ideas and innovations to determine success factor;
• Work with the business development team to provide testing and analytical support to bring new products to market.
• To prepare sample test specimens and pre-production trials for 3rd party accreditations.
• Manage regular projects within the R&D scope;
• Progress projects with autonomy, safely and efficiently;
• Evaluating raw materials and selecting chemistries for formulation;
• Liaise with third parties and suppliers;
• To work with the quality department to regarding customer complaints and resolving technical problems.
• Act and work independently on own initiative and/or collaboratively with cross functional teams.

The Person:

• Educated to a high level ideally in Chemistry;
• At least 5 years practical industrial experience;
• Ability through extended experience to independently conduct chemical analysis using a number of chemistry techniques;
• Experience of chemical formulation and project management;
• Analytical and methodical approach to problem solving;
• Experience within a manufacturing environment, where there is a requirement to understand the technical process;
• Excellent understanding of basic laboratory equipment;
• Experience working within a GMP laboratory setting;
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English, with the ability to effectively present and to network with external clients and internal teams;
• Excellent organisational skills including time management and priority setting;
• Scrupulous attention to detail, well-organised with a strong team working ethos.

This position offers a real opportunity to contribute to an established and successful growing global business and apart from a highly competitive salary, for more information or a confidential chat please forward your CV to John Hutchinson and we will be in touch to organise a convenient time to discuss in more detail.