At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in polymer product development from concept to commercial launch.
- Company: Established speciality chemicals manufacturer with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, excellent salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment where your ideas are valued and career progression is encouraged.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the polymer industry while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Chemistry or related field with experience in polymer development and team management.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
Are you an experienced senior polymer chemist or technical leader looking to make a real impact? We are recruiting on behalf of a well-established speciality chemicals manufacturer seeking a Technical Manager to lead an experienced Product Development team and help drive the company's technical and commercial success. This is a hands-on leadership role, overseeing product development projects from concept through to full-scale manufacture while contributing to business growth, customer engagement and future strategy.
Key Tasks:
- Reporting to the Operations Director, you will lead a team consisting of experienced development chemists working across both solvent-based and water-based technologies, alongside industrial and summer placement students.
- You will be responsible for ensuring projects move efficiently from laboratory development through production scale-up and commercial launch.
Responsibilities include:
- Leading and developing the Product Development team.
- Managing a portfolio of development projects typically lasting between 6 and 18 months.
- Driving successful scale-up from laboratory to full manufacturing production.
- Working closely with manufacturing, quality and commercial teams.
- Supporting customers through technical visits and development discussions.
- Attending industry exhibitions and representing the business externally.
- Ensuring technical activities align with commercial opportunities and strategic objectives.
- Developing broader technical capabilities across the development team.
- Providing technical leadership in polymer development, problem solving and product optimisation.
- Supporting regulatory compliance.
About You:
- Experienced technical professional with a background in polymer development and supervisory experience.
- A degree in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science or a related discipline.
- Significant experience within polymers, coatings, adhesives, elastomers or speciality chemicals.
- Experience of managing or mentoring technical teams.
- Strong project management and organisational skills.
- Commercial awareness and confidence working with customers.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of regulatory compliance, quality control and HSE.
- Must have the right to work in the UK - our client cannot offer sponsorship.
- Must be living in the UK. Please do not apply if you are not a UK resident.
Highly Desirable:
- Experience of Polyurethane chemistry, polyurethane dispersions (PUDs) & prepolymers.
- Understanding of isocyanate-based systems and associated health and safety requirements.
- Technical capability is important, but personality is equally critical.
- You will bring energy and enthusiasm with a collaborative leadership style.
- Practical, hands-on approach is required and the ability to inspire and motivate others.
You'll be joining a business where good ideas are encouraged, achievements are recognised, and technical leadership has a direct impact on future success. Professional development opportunities and long-term career progression into senior leadership are on offer for the successful candidate.
Location & Details: Based onsite, they offer flexible working hours, excellent salary and benefits. Excellent rail and road transport links make commuting straightforward from across the West Midlands.
Technical Manager - Product Development - Polymers in Birmingham employer: Merritt Recruitment
Merritt Recruitment is an excellent employer for graduates seeking a dynamic career in recruitment, particularly within the scientific sectors. With a modern office in Dartford, we offer comprehensive training, clear career progression, and the chance to specialise in exciting markets, all while fostering a supportive and collaborative work culture that values professional growth and development.
