Head of Quality, R&D & Product Development

Chemical Search International; England; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Chemical Search International represents an award-winning specialty chemicals business seeking a Head of Product Quality & Development. Reporting to the Operations Director, the role will oversee the R&D lab, QC Lab and quality control operations, including customer success.

You will manage a team of 15 via 3 direct reports and bring a degree (MSc or PhD) in polymer chemistry, materials science or chemical engineering with 5–10 years’ lab experience.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in polymer chemistry, materials science or chemical engineering.
• 5–10 years’ lab experience with day-to-day lab management (budgeting, reporting, planning).
• Experience in customer-facing roles such as technical services and liaising with R&D.
• Knowledge of chemistries such as epoxy is helpful but not essential.
• Excellent communicator and manager who can work across departments.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the R&D lab, QC Lab and quality control operations, including customer success.
• Manage lab budgeting, reporting and planning.
• Lead a team of 15 via 3 direct reports.
• Coordinate with R&D to exceed client expectations and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Polymer chemistry degree

Lab leadership

Customer-facing experience

Continuous improvement

Cross-functional collaboration

People management

Education

MSc/PhD in polymer chemistry

Materials science

Chemical engineering

Job description

Chemical Search International represents an award-winning specialty chemicals business seeking a Head of Product Quality & Development. Reporting to the Operations Director, the role will oversee the R&D lab, QC Lab and quality control operations, including customer success.

You will manage a team of 15 via 3 direct reports and bring a degree (MSc or PhD) in polymer chemistry, materials science or chemical engineering with 5–10 years’ lab experience.