Global Technical Lead (Battery Materials)

synthomer; Harlow; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading supplier of advanced polymers is seeking a Global Technical Lead based in the UK. The successful candidate will oversee technical programs in the lithium-ion battery industry, drive innovation, and collaborate with global teams. Key requirements include a degree in Material Science, proven experience in the industry, and strong program management skills. Additional attributes such as Mandarin skills and expertise in cell design will be highly valued. This role offers a unique opportunity to impact product development and sustainability initiatives.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in the lithium-ion battery industry.
• Strong background in technical program management within a business environment.
• Ability to operate independently while integrating into a global organization.

Responsibilities

• Ensure transparency and collaboration across Battery Materials sites.
• Lead product development programs that deliver commercially viable solutions.
• Work closely with the Commercial Director for technical support.

Skills

Proven experience in the lithium-ion battery industry

Strong background in technical program management

Skilled in teamworking and resource management

Ability to collaborate across territories

Education

Degree in Material Science, Electrochemistry, Physics or related field

Job description

Synthomer plc is a leading supplier of high-performance, highly specialised polymers and ingredients that play vital roles in key sectors such as coatings, construction, adhesives, and health and protection – growing markets that serve billions of end users worldwide. Headquartered in London, UK and publicly listed there since 1971, we employ c.3,900 employees across our 5 innovation centres of excellence and more than 29 manufacturing sites across Europe, North America and Asia. Around 20% of our sales volumes are from new and patent protected products.

At our innovation centres of excellence in the UK, Germany, China, Malaysia and Ohio, USA we collaborate closely with our customers to develop new products and enhance existing ones tailored to their needs, with an increasing range of sustainability benefits. Since 2021, we have been proud holders of the London Stock Exchange Green Economy Mark, which recognises green technology businesses making a significant contribution to a more sustainable, low-carbon economy.

Job Location: EMEA

As Global Technical Lead, you will :

• Integrate global teams : Ensure transparency, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing across our Battery Materials sites
• Drive innovation : Lead product development programs that deliver commercially viable solutions
• Partner with customers : Work closely with the Commercial Director to provide technical support and shape long-term innovation pipelines
• Coordinate resources : Plan and optimise programs across technical centres worldwide
• Represent Synthomer : Showcase our expertise at industry events, trade shows, and customer validation processes
• Champion standards : Oversee ISO / IATF certifications and ensure compliance with industry benchmarks

What We’re Looking For :

• Degree in Material Science, Electrochemistry, Physics or related field
• Proven experience in the lithium-ion battery industry
• Strong background in technical program management within a business environment
• Skilled in teamworking and resource management, with the ability to operate independently while integrating into a global organisation
• Ability to collaborate across different territories and cultures
• Experience leading diverse technical programs and presenting to varied stakeholders

Highly Desired Attributes

• Mandarin language skills
• Background in automotive or energy storage sectors
• Technical expertise in lithium-ion cell design, particularly anode or binder technologies