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, inclusive culture, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment focused on sustainability and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of construction with cutting-edge R&D and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in Chemistry or Materials Science with strong leadership and R&D experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € 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. 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.
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. 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 Loughborough employer: Saint Gobain
At Saint-Gobain, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in our East Leake location. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous development opportunities and a focus on sustainability, ensuring that our team members are not only shaping the future of construction but also contributing to a better world. Join us to be part of a diverse and inclusive environment where your unique contributions are valued and encouraged.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R&D Manager in Loughborough
✨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 by researching Saint-Gobain and their innovative projects. Understand their focus on sustainability and customer-centric solutions. We want you to show how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your leadership experience and how you've driven innovation in past roles. We suggest you highlight specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage teams and deliver complex projects successfully.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. We believe this small gesture can help keep you top of mind as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace R&D Manager in Loughborough
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 developing innovative solutions that align with customer needs. We want to see how your background fits with our mission at Saint-Gobain!
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 your skills can contribute to our innovative projects. Don’t forget to mention your understanding of sustainability and performance, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:In your application, be sure to highlight your leadership experience. We’re looking for someone who can develop and inspire a team, so share examples of how you've successfully managed and grown technical teams in the past.
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, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Saint Gobain
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of chemistry, materials science, and the specific products Saint-Gobain develops. Be ready to discuss how your past experiences align with their focus on innovative, customer-centric solutions.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience in managing technical teams. Discuss how you've developed team capabilities and driven successful R&D projects, especially in a manufacturing environment.
✨Understand Customer Needs
Be prepared to talk about how you've translated customer and market needs into innovative R&D programmes. Think of specific instances where your work has directly impacted product development or customer satisfaction.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Since this role involves collaboration with global stakeholders, demonstrate your excellent communication skills and ability to influence across technical and commercial teams.
