Development and Solutions Lab Manager, North America, Powder Coatings

Job Purpose

As the Research and Development functional representative on the regional management team for the powder coatings business unit, this position contributes to the implementation of business unit strategy and leads the research and development agenda.   Manages the regional solutions and development labs and evaluates potential development projects to include the modification of existing products/process/services and the development of new products within agreed performance strategy and costing analysis.

Key Accountabilities

• Provides input and implements the research and development strategy for the regional business unit.
• Manages the activities in multiple Development/Solutions labs and works closely with the Regional Management Team to ensure efficient operations in accordance with business requirements.  
• Ensures project management and product development best practices, standards, methods, and tools, according to the Innovation Core Process for the Regional Development Team.  Will develop process and performance reporting.
• Delivers on variable cost savings initiatives, product improvements, color delivery, customer requests, complaint resolutions and launch of new product developments.
• Collaborates with the marketing and commercial team to create the company long-term product development priorities in the region.
• Partners with commercial, marketing and manufacturing functions to deliver commercial value by supporting customer trials, providing re-work dispositions and programs to improve results.
• Develops technical project plans for New Product Development projects and Technology Platform projects that document program goals and objectives, scope, budget, risk management plans and program/project resources. Ensures that each project is managed through agreed deliverables and milestones, delivering the desired result.
• Develops and maintains relationships with internal and external suppliers and experts to stay abreast of new technologies which may translate to product development projects,
• Represents AkzoNobel as a technology leader to colleagues, suppliers, and the coatings industry, conducting high level technical reviews with internal and external customers.
• Remains knowledgeable of applicable corporate as well as site and laboratory policies/ procedures with regard to personal conduct, Health/Safety/Environmental (HSE) and Product Safety and Regulatory Affairs (PSRA) and quality standards and acting in compliance with all applicable regulations.

Job Requirements

• Education and experience must include one of the following:
  • Master of Science in Chemistry, Chemical Technology or related field with 10 years' research and development experience in the coatings industry or chemical manufacturing.
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry, Chemical Technology or related field with 7 years' research and development experience in the coatings industry or chemical manufacturing.
• Extensive knowledge of the powder coatings market, customers and value chain.
• Thorough knowledge of the paints and coatings business requirements and operations.
• 5 years' people management skills to include supervising remote team members.
• Experience influencing in a matrix organization with the ability to develop strategies and produce results.
• Prior experience in a multi-national organization.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to interact at all levels and across all functions.
• Ability to maintain safe work environment.

Total Compensation

The compensation package for this position will include a base salary, annual bonus, and employee benefits that are effective the first day of employment.
 
Perks for Joining AkzoNobel!  
Medical insurance with HSA • Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D benefits • Annual bonus • 401K retirement savings with 6% company match • Generous vacation, personal and holiday pay • Paid Parental leave • Active Diversity and Inclusion Networks • Career growth opportunities on a regional and global scale • Tuition Reimbursement • Career growth opportunities • Employee referral bonus 

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