Head of New Product Development

This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially strong, new product development leader to join a highly regarded, industry-renowned Company to champion their transition to a sustainable chemistry portfolio. From its UK base and through international markets, Thomas Swan & Co Ltd has ambitious plans for further organic growth, expanding its international manufacturing footprint and targeted acquisitions.

Privately-owned, the Company manufactures and markets a technically strong range of products which require detailed and innovative development to ensure that the Company remains at the forefront of its chosen sectors. Standing still is not an option and without new products the Company will not match ambitious growth targets which focus on sustainable production technologies and raw materials to deliver sustainably derived products that deliver performance and value.

Reporting to the Business Director, Performance Chemicals, the appointee will contribute to the development and implementation of business strategy through researching, anticipating, and understanding 1 to 5-year market trends to define and implement NPD projects. With full responsibility for the Company’s in-house “Green Feather Innovations” incubator, personal passion for sustainability, biodiversity and environmental responsibilities within a profitable business will be paramount.

The incumbent will be proactive, hands-on, and influential, targeting new product and service development as a key component of future margin growth and will collaborate closely with all areas of the business to ensure common purpose and a co-ordinated approach. Cultural fit, professionalism, and proactivity will all be of paramount importance to this appointment as will an understanding and acknowledgement of the issues affecting family-run SMEs.

This is a senior and influential role, and the right individual will enjoy contributing to the overall long-term development of the wider organisation. Candidates, ideally qualified to degree level or equivalent in a science or technical discipline, will have a record of experience and expertise in new business development, inspirational thinking, strong teamwork, a high level of integrity and a desire to build relationships both internally and externally.

Experienced in marketing and communications and influencing future technical direction, the appointee will demonstrate drive, tenacity, ‘presence’ and strong financial awareness coupled with exemplary communication, data management & presentation skills. Listening, influencing and negotiation will all be key competencies along with effective analysis and decision-making skills, and a positive, enthusiastic outlook which will engage others to deliver exceptional results.

Interested applicants should send a detailed CV and covering letter quoting current salary and reference 2201/web to 2201@transitionplus.co.uk or for an initial confidential discussion, please call Steve Bennett at Tel: +44 (0) 1270 875710.