R&D & NPD Lead — Polymers & Insulation

Smart4Sciences; Bolton; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Smart4Sciences in Bolton is seeking a Technical Manager to own the company's technical function, leading R&D, new product development and the successful launch of polymer-based insulation and membrane products to market.

You will lead and develop a growing technical team, collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Sales and Commercial teams, and ensure compliance with industry standards and customer expectations.

Qualifications

• Degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science or related field.
• Experience in R&D or New Product Development environments.
• Proven experience with polymer-based materials and products.
• Experience leading and developing technical teams.
• Understanding of product development from concept to launch.
• Experience in insulation, construction materials, membranes, or related sectors is advantageous.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication skills to influence stakeholders at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Lead the technical function, overseeing R&D and NPD activities.
• Drive development of innovative polymer-based products from concept to launch.
• Mentor and develop the technical team with performance management.
• Identify opportunities for product improvements, innovation, differentiation.
• Oversee product formulation, testing, validation and performance evaluation.
• Ensure products meet industry standards, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Sales, and Commercial teams to support launches.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Stakeholder management

Education

Degree in Chemistry/Polymer Science/Materials Science or related

Job description

Smart4Sciences in Bolton is seeking a Technical Manager to own the company's technical function, leading R&D, new product development and the successful launch of polymer-based insulation and membrane products to market.

You will lead and develop a growing technical team, collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Sales and Commercial teams, and ensure compliance with industry standards and customer expectations.