Group Manager Product R&D
M. Sc in Chemistry / Chemical Technology or corresponding degree 5-7 years relevant work experience Experience in continuous improvement and HSE Experience from product development/positions in RD&I or production Good knowledge about polymer science and/or the area of expandable microspheres Customer understanding and ability to address customer needs and issues Strong ability to lead, engage and coach others Skilled at organizing, prioritizing workflow and coordinating the work of others High social skills and communication skills in English, both verbal and written
To be successful in this position you are a collaborative cross-functional team player as well as focused on creating results. You have the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, and it is also important that you meet external and internal customers and their needs in a professional manner. You have the ability to identify opportunities and proactive in putting forward ideas and solutions. You also have a strong ability to lead, engage and coach others and are skilled at organizing, prioritizing and coordinate the work of others.
AkzoNobel Pulp and Performance Chemicals (PPC) is a leading global organization in pulp technology, colloidal silica and expandable microspheres. We offer innovative and sustainable products and technologies that are widely used by customers in a variety of industrial applications. AkzoNobel Pulp and Performance Chemicals operate four product lines: Expancel, LEVASIL, Chromasil and Fine Chemicals. Our headquarters are located in Bohus, Sweden. Stockvik is one of the largest sites in AkzoNobel in Sweden, with 380 people working in three different business units: Pulp and Performance Chemicals, Surface Chemistry, Wood Finishes and Adhesives We are now searching for a group manager for the Product R&D team.
About the position As our Group Manager Product R&D you will be responsible of manage and develop the Product R&D team at Expancel. The group consists of a team of highly motivated and skilled engineers and chemists. The group has the key objective to develop and optimize new and existing expandable microspheres for commercial use in different market segments to realizing our customer’s needs and to support the business strategy. The Product R&D team works with development in close cooperation with other RD&I teams and functions in the business. Support to market and production departments with sustainability & product chemistry related knowledge and trouble-shooting is also part of the work.
Main responsibilities Responsible to follow appropriate HSE-legislations and HSE site rules for the Product R&D team, in order to provide a safe workplace and environment Lead, coach, appraise and develop employees in the Product R&D team Encouraging continuous improvements and increased efficiency in working processes Actively support and encouraging new innovations in order to reach business targets Responsible for the development and optimization of new and existing expandable microspheres Responsible to support the market and production departments with sustainability & product chemistry related knowledge, trouble-shooting & support in polymerization technology Keep up with internal and external scientific developments and ensure transfer and retention of knowledge and information in the field of expertise
Industries worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, and personal care items. Building on the dedication of our employees and our shared commitment to safety, sustainability, and open innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.