Research Manager: Lead Breakthrough Projects & Innovation

Hartalega; Sepang; On-site; MYR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Hartalega is seeking a visionary R&D Lead to drive breakthrough product development and process innovation within its advanced chemistry and materials teams. You will lead small teams, manage projects from concept to implementation, and ensure technical governance.

You will translate customer inputs into clear requirements, coordinate cross-functional plans, apply experimental design, and mentor researchers while pursuing patentable innovations.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant science/engineering field.
• Experience leading innovative R&D in products and processes.
• Proven track record with patents and commercialization.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage small teams or projects to drive breakthrough innovation, product development, and process improvements.
• Take accountability for project execution, technical governance, and developing team capabilities.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to align priorities and monitor progress.
• Apply RND frameworks and experimental design principles; identify patentable innovations and technical claims.
• Act as escalation point for technical issues and mitigate project risks.
• Develop team capabilities through coaching and recruitment support.
• Lead continuous improvement and innovation initiatives within projects.
• Coordinate experiments or trials with external partners and document feedback.
• Perform additional duties to meet objectives.

Skills

Research Leadership

Project Management

R&D Strategy

Patent Registration

Cross-functional Collaboration

Education

PhD in Chemistry/Polymer Science/Material Science/Polymer Engineering/Material Engineering/Applied Chemistry

Job description

Hartalega is seeking a visionary R&D Lead to drive breakthrough product development and process innovation within its advanced chemistry and materials teams. You will lead small teams, manage projects from concept to implementation, and ensure technical governance.

You will translate customer inputs into clear requirements, coordinate cross-functional plans, apply experimental design, and mentor researchers while pursuing patentable innovations.