Research and Development (R&D) Manager

Smart Paint Manufacturing Sdn Bhd; Johor Bahru; On-site; MYR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

SAC Berhad, a publicly listed leader in the paint industry in Malaysia, seeks a high-performing, self-driven R&D leader to support growth within Malaysia.

Lead the R&D and innovation strategy, drive new product development from formulation to scale-up, and ensure regulatory compliance and IP protection across the organization.

Qualifications

• Degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science or related field (Master's or PhD preferred).
• Minimum 8 years of experience in paint or coatings R&D, including at least 3 years in supervisory or managerial role.
• Strong knowledge of paint formulation, raw materials and testing methods.
• Good understanding of regulatory and EHS requirements for the coatings industry.
• Proven leadership, project management and cross-functional communication skills.
• Analytical, results-oriented and cost-conscious.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the R&D and innovation strategy, with a focus on material innovation.
• Drive new product development from formulation to scale-up and commercial launch.
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction, improved product performance and new product features.
• Lead, coach and develop a team of R&D members and foster a culture of innovation and collaboration.
• Set and monitor R&D KPIs and report progress to the Director.
• Safeguard formulations and R&D intellectual property.
• Ensure regulatory compliance, laboratory EHS and 5S practices.
• Work with Sales, Marketing, Procurement and Production to deliver commercially successful products.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Cross-functional communication

Coatings knowledge

Education

Chemistry/Polymer Science/Engineering

Master's or PhD preferred

Job description

SAC Berhad is a publicly listed company and an established leader in the paint manufacturing industry. As we continue to expand our footprint across different regions in Malaysia, we are seeking a high-performing, self-driven individual to support our growth within Malaysia.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and execute the R&D and innovation strategy, with a focus on material innovation.

Drive new product development from formulation to scale-up and commercial launch.

Identify opportunities for cost reduction, improved product performance and new product features.

Lead, coach and develop a team R&D members, including chemists, technical advisor and lab assistants, and foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement.

Set and monitor R&D KPIs (project milestones, development timelines, cost savings) and report progress to the Director.

Safeguard formulations and R&D intellectual property.

Ensure regulatory compliance, laboratory EHS and 5S practices.

Work with Sales, Marketing, Procurement and Production to deliver commercially successful products.

Who Are We Looking For

Degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science or a related field (Master's or PhD preferred).

Minimum 8 years of experience in paint or coatings R&D, including at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.

Strong knowledge of paint formulation, raw materials and testing methods.

Good understanding of regulatory and EHS requirements for the coatings industry.

Proven leadership, project management and cross-functional communication skills.

Analytical, results-oriented and cost-conscious.