R&D Strategy & Innovation Director

Solstice Advanced Materials; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 232,000 - 290,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

401(k) match

Educational assistance

Parental leave

Paid time off

12 paid holidays

Job summary

Solstice Advanced Materials seeks a Sr. Director of Research and Development to set the long-term vision and strategic direction for the R&D function in Buffalo, NY.

You will lead and mentor a diverse team of directors, managers, engineers, and scientists, fostering innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. You will oversee the R&D project portfolio, align with strategic priorities, stay ahead of emerging technologies, and drive transformative projects to successful delivery.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience leading R&D in technology, chemical, or manufacturing environments.
• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Material Science, or a related field.
• Proven record of innovation: IP development, new product commercialization, and revenue from new products.
• Demonstrated achievements in new molecule and new material development and commercialization.
• Proven people leadership and mentorship of high-performing teams.
• U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or asylum/refugee status (due to export control compliance).

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with executive leadership to integrate R&D strategies into the broader business strategy.
• Represent the R&D function in high-level discussions and decision-making.
• Provide leadership and guidance to multiple R&D teams, ensuring cohesion and synergy.
• Develop talent within the R&D teams, promoting skill development and career growth.
• Oversee the entire portfolio of R&D projects, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends relevant to Solstice’s business.
• Own the development of technology roadmaps.
• Develop critical customer relationships.

Skills

Leadership

Strategy development

Mentorship

Cross-functional collaboration

Stakeholder management

Talent development

Education

PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Material Science, or related field

Tools

Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning in materials development

Job description

Solstice Advanced Materials seeks a Sr. Director of Research and Development to set the long-term vision and strategic direction for the R&D function in Buffalo, NY.

You will lead and mentor a diverse team of directors, managers, engineers, and scientists, fostering innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. You will oversee the R&D project portfolio, align with strategic priorities, stay ahead of emerging technologies, and drive transformative projects to successful delivery.