Vice President Research And Development

The QUIKRETE Companies is seeking exceptional candidates for the Vice President of Research & Development at our state-of-the-art Technology & Innovation Center located in Johns Creek, Georgia.

The VP of Research & Development will lead our product development efforts. This individual must combine deep technical knowledge in polymer and especially cement-based materials with strong business acumen and people leadership capabilities. Since a majority of the Quikrete businesses use cement as a key material, deep knowledge in cement-based chemistry, formulation, and material science is critical. General strength in material science is important as this role will evaluate new and competitive technologies regardless of the material (cement, polymer, metal, composite, etc.).

The ideal candidate will be a curious, strategic thinker who thrives on solving complex challenges and is passionate about developing high-performing teams and driving continuous improvement across the value chain—from raw materials to product application. Much of the product development is in packaged products sold through retail and commercial distribution channels. The successful candidate will have a strong record of moving new product ideas from concept through development and into the marketplace.

• Lead and evolve the company’s R&D strategy with a focus on innovation in cement- and polymer-based systems, admixtures, and additives.
• Demonstrate deep technical curiosity with a willingness and ability to "go deep" when necessary to remove roadblocks and advance key projects.
• Develop technical knowledge and insights for sound decision making using statistically-sound experimentation and high-quality data.
• Integrate complex technical inputs and stakeholder requirements to guide product development and innovation.
• Provide technical leadership in cement chemistry including ternary systems (OPC, Aluminate, Sulfate), redispersible and other polymers, rheology, stress-strain analysis, and composite materials.
• Oversee research and development across coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers.
• Engage strategically in raw material selection with consideration of sourcing, cost drivers, and application requirements.

• Translate technical capabilities into business value; articulate the value proposition to a variety of internal and external stakeholders including supply partners, installers, GCs, designers, and owners.
• Identify P&L opportunities across multiple businesses and product lines.
• Contribute to strategic planning.
• Communicate complex technical concepts clearly to non-technical business leaders.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory developments, and represent the company in industry forums, conferences, and partnership
• Lead a diverse portfolio of projects spanning simple raw material replacements to novel product innovation.
• Enforce disciplined product development practices to ensure timely, efficient, and successful product launches.
• Guide cross-functional teams across R&D, quality, regulatory, and technical service.

• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing, multidisciplinary team across varying levels of education and experience from high school to PhD.
• Champion career development, succession planning, and a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Manage team performance, including progressive discipline and terminations as warranted.
• Facilitate effective cross-functional collaboration among teams with different backgrounds and expertise.
• Support other business functions, including operations, sales, and purchasing
• Oversee raw material evaluations and cost out opportunities
• Work closely with Quality Assurance and plant management to address quality issues and claims.

• Advanced degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering or related discipline.

• 15+ years of significant experience in the construction materials industry, with a focus on cement-based systems.
• Extensive experience in product development, with demonstrated product launches in the commercial and consumer channels.
• Proven track…