At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to develop innovative construction solutions and drive customer-centric projects.
- Company: Join Saint-Gobain, a global leader in sustainable construction.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, career growth, and a diverse, inclusive environment.
- Other info: Collaborate globally and influence strategic innovation in a dynamic workplace.
- Why this job: Shape the future of construction with cutting-edge R&D and sustainability initiatives.
- Qualifications: Degree in Chemistry or Materials Science with R&D leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
At Saint-Gobain we are looking for an R&D Manager to join our Global R&D team in East Leake, helping to deliver innovative, customer-centric interior finishing solutions for construction markets worldwide. This R&D Manager role will lead a team of technical specialists focused on developing powder products, paste products, adhesives and interior drywall finishing systems. Working closely with global stakeholders, application experts and customers, this role offers the opportunity to influence strategic innovation projects from early-stage research through to commercial product development. You'll play a key role in shaping future-focused solutions that support sustainability, performance and customer needs across international markets.
This role is based on-site in East Leake, 5 days per week.
What we’re looking for:
- Degree qualified in Chemistry, Materials Science or a related scientific discipline, with significant industrial R&D experience within a manufacturing environment.
- Proven leadership experience managing and developing technical teams within product formulation, material development or construction solutions.
- Strong understanding of translating customer and market needs into innovative, solution-oriented R&D programmes.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence globally across technical and commercial teams.
- Experience delivering complex innovation or product development projects within a multi-functional and international environment.
What you will be doing:
- Lead and develop a team of R&D professionals, ensuring capability growth aligned to business and global R&D strategies.
- Drive customer-centric innovation projects from concept research through to commercial development and manufacturing implementation.
- Collaborate with global R&D, marketing and application teams to align innovation activity with strategic business priorities.
- Identify new technologies, materials and external partnerships, including universities and research organisations, to support future innovation opportunities.
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement, sustainability, safety and high-performance delivery across all R&D activities.
Saint-Gobain is a worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, following our purpose of 'Making the World a Better Home'. We play a part in improving daily life through high-performance solutions. From wherever you are, let your unique personality and our values guide you every day to invent a more sustainable world. We understand that a diverse workplace is not only a more enjoyable place to be, but also facilitates better decision making and innovation. So, whoever you are, and whichever Saint-Gobain business you join, you can be sure of a warm welcome with us.
And what about flexibility?
At Saint-Gobain, we’re always open to new ways of working. Everyone has different needs and commitments. We’ll happily discuss any need you might have for this role. Whilst we can’t promise to meet every request when we’re recruiting, we do promise to listen.
If you match our criteria, we will be in touch to discuss your experience and more about you as a person — we look forward to hearing from you!
R&D Manager in East Leake employer: Saint-Gobain UK & Ireland
At Saint-Gobain, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. As an R D Principal Scientist in East Leake, you will have the opportunity to lead cutting-edge projects in a supportive environment, with access to professional growth opportunities and a commitment to sustainability. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the construction industry while enjoying a flexible workplace that values your unique contributions.
Contact Details:
Saint-Gobain UK & Ireland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R&D Manager in East Leake
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that R&D Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Saint-Gobain’s latest projects and innovations, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to showcase your leadership skills and technical expertise, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds. We believe this small gesture can make a big difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Saint-Gobain. We’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
We think you need these skills to ace R&D Manager in East Leake
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the R&D Manager role. Highlight your experience in leading technical teams and any relevant projects you've worked on that align with the job description. We want to see how your background fits with our innovative approach!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about R&D and how you can contribute to our mission at Saint-Gobain. Be sure to mention specific examples of your leadership and innovation skills.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves collaborating with global stakeholders, make sure to demonstrate your excellent communication skills in your application. We love seeing candidates who can effectively convey complex ideas and influence others!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to us. Plus, we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Saint-Gobain UK & Ireland
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of chemistry, materials science, and the specific products you'll be working with. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in sustainable construction and how they relate to R&D. This will show that you're not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific projects where you managed technical specialists or drove innovation. Highlight your ability to develop talent and foster a collaborative environment, as this is crucial for the R&D Manager role.
✨Understand Customer Needs
Be ready to discuss how you've translated customer and market needs into successful R&D programmes. Bring examples of how you've identified opportunities for innovation based on customer feedback or market research. This will demonstrate your customer-centric approach, which is key for this position.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Since you'll be collaborating with global stakeholders, it's important to showcase your excellent communication skills. Prepare to discuss how you've influenced cross-functional teams and navigated complex projects in an international setting.
