Group Leader: Technical Product Development Leader- Next Generation Coatings

PPG Industries, Inc; New York, Pittsburgh (NY, OH, Allegheny County); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Technical Product Development Leader to oversee a talented team in the Automotive Refinish sector. This role offers a unique opportunity to enhance leadership skills while driving innovation in next-generation coatings. You will manage a diverse team, lead product development efforts, and collaborate on strategies to support high-growth markets. Join a forward-thinking company committed to sustainability and excellence, where your contributions will significantly impact product innovation and customer satisfaction.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science required.
• Proven team leadership in a technical environment for a minimum of 3 years.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of 11 chemists in product development.
• Drive growth in key markets and ensure customer-focused product support.

Skills

Team Leadership

Project Management

Formulation Development

Statistical Analysis

Education

PhD in Chemistry

Master's Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Statistical Analysis Tools

Job description

Technical Product Development Leader - Next-Generation Coatings

PPG Industries

Columbus, Ohio

*This role has been pre-approved for cross-regional transfers. Internal employees from EMEA, APAC, & LATAM are encouraged to apply.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Technical People Leader to join PPG's Automotive Refinish business within the USCA technical organization based in Delaware, Columbus, OH. As a Team Lead, you will oversee a team of 11 chemists with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

About PPG Automotive Refinish:

PPG's Automotive Refinish is a leader in innovation, color, and technology within the refinish and commercial coatings industry. Our products include advanced coating systems, services, and support for high-end applications such as signs, theme parks, commercial transport, heavy equipment, and light industrial applications.

This business is experiencing significant growth, leading to expansion of our technical team. The primary objectives are to retain existing business, drive growth, and develop a portfolio of next-generation coatings, along with product support that involves direct customer interaction.

Career Growth Opportunity:

This role offers a unique chance to enhance your leadership skills and expand your expertise in a dynamic, innovative environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead and Develop a High-Performing Team:

• Manage and inspire a team of 11 chemists.
• Foster a collaborative environment aligned with PPG Way to Lead behaviors.
• Drive performance through goal-setting, accountability, and feedback.
• Identify and develop top talent for succession planning.
• Build trust-based relationships with team members and stakeholders.
• Promote innovation, continuous improvement, and data-driven decisions.

Product Development Leadership:

• Lead efforts to rebuild the product portfolio focusing on next-generation coatings.
• Drive development of sustainable, environmentally friendly formulations.
• Oversee initiatives for Light Industrial Coatings and Matthews Paints.
• Lead projects like Oxsol replacements addressing market needs.
• Leverage PPG's global resources and IP to develop new coatings.
• Streamline product complexity for operational efficiency.

Drive Growth in Key Markets:

• Collaborate on technical support strategies for the Heavy Duty OEM segment.
• Support high-growth markets like trailers, oilfield equipment, railcars, and heavy equipment.

Customer-Focused Product Support:

• Set clear expectations for technical service requests.
• Develop team expertise in statistical analysis and decision-making tools.
• Use risk-based approaches for timely, effective support.

Safety and Workplace Excellence:

• Maintain a safe, organized, and clean work environment.
• Promote safety awareness and compliance.

Qualifications:

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science with 5-7 years of industrial experience, or
• Master's degree with 10 years of experience, or
• Bachelor's degree with 20 years of experience.
• Proven team leadership in a technical environment (minimum 3 years).
• Strong project management and formulation development experience.
• Deep understanding of industry trends, customer needs, and regulations.

About Us:

At PPG, we value integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to continuous improvement. We aim to protect and beautify the world through innovation, sustainability, and color. Learn more at www.ppg.com and follow @PPG on Twitter.

The PPG Way:

• Partner with customers to create mutual value.
• Operate as