R&D Manager

Job Code: 230/001/879
Industry: Manufacturing - Insulation / Chemicals
Job Brief:
The R&D Manager will oversee research and development operations including testing, analysis, and product development. The role involves leading R&D projects, coordinating with production and quality teams, and ensuring the development of innovative, compliant, and market-ready products.
Job Responsibilities:

• Lead R&D projects, develop and implement R&D strategies, and monitor progress to meet development goals.
• Conduct lab-scale research and transition to pilot and commercial-scale production.
• Collaborate with the production team to certify raw materials, guide pilot testing, and resolve technical issues.
• Manage and prioritize multiple projects efficiently and complete tasks independently.
• Draft and maintain documentation for CE marking and conformity certifications.
• Develop new products and recipes based on market trends and customer needs.
• Improve and enhance existing products based on customer feedback.
• Coordinate with other departments for nomenclature improvements.
• Summarize and present experimental results clearly.
• Test and release raw materials and finished products as required.
• Maintain accurate project documentation and contribute to innovation processes.
• Communicate with international test houses, certification bodies, and marketing teams.
• Ensure compliance with the company's safety regulations and protocols.
• Interact with global site QC and R&D teams to address their requirements as part of a centralized R&D function.
• Maintain the global R&D center, ensuring regular calibration and efficient operation of testing equipment, and support sustainable work processes.

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in R&D, preferably within the building materials, HVAC, or polymer insulation sectors.
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, or Industrial Engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of polymer chemistry, including cross-linked polyolefin (XLPE) and nitrile butadiene rubber (N ) formulations.
• Proficiency in handling and testing chemicals, with a strong understanding of polymer morphology.
• Experience with thermal and acoustic insulation materials, particularly in HVAC applications.
• Familiarity with international standards and certifications relevant to insulation products (e.g., CE marking, FM approval).
• Demonstrated experience in preparing and maintaining documentation for product conformity certifications.
• Knowledge of environmental and safety regulations pertaining to chemical handling and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to interact effectively with global QC and R&D teams, serving as a central point of contact.
• Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and maintaining calibration schedules.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.
• Strong team management skills.
• Experience in prototype simulation field studies.
• Familiarity with certification documentation and 3rd-party audits.
• Effective communication with global teams; accent neutralization preferred