At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovation in fire protection coatings and manage a talented R&D team.
- Company: Join Sherwin-Williams, a leader in paints and coatings with a strong commitment to growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive rewards, flexible work options, and opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive culture that values your skills and contributions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic industry while driving innovation and collaboration.
- Qualifications: BSc in Chemistry and 5+ years in the coatings industry, with leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced R&D Team Leader to join our Bolton site and lead innovation within our Fire Protection Coatings portfolio. You will manage a team of technical experts and drive product development and optimisation, ensuring alignment with business, customer, and regulatory requirements. The role involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders, including customers and certification bodies.
- Product & Technology Development
- Drive innovation and optimisation of fire protection coatings, including formulation improvements
- Plan and execute R&D projects in line with timelines, quality, and certification standards
- Analyse results and provide clear recommendations to progress projects
- Operational & Technical Support
- Provide technical expertise to internal teams and customers
- Support testing, certification, and represent the company externally
- Lead investigations into product performance and maintain lab capabilities
- People Leadership
- Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing R&D team
- Set clear goals, manage performance, and foster a collaborative culture
- Safety, Quality & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with H&S, quality, and laboratory standards
- Promote technical excellence and professional conduct
- Continuous Improvement & Collaboration
- Support process improvements and cross-functional initiatives
- Share knowledge and contribute to innovation across the organisation
BSc in Chemistry (or equivalent higher education qualification)
Experience leading technical teams or managing R&D projects
Proven track record of delivering commercially relevant results
At least 5 years experience in coatings industry
Experience in Passive Fire Protection (advantageous)
Ability to engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Flexibility and willingness to engage in occasional travel globally as required.
R&D Fire Coatings Lead – Innovation & Growth in Bolton employer: Sherwin-Williams
At Sherwin-Williams, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, particularly for the R&D Fire Coatings Lead role at our Bolton site. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our investment in professional development and a collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and inclusivity. With a focus on health and well-being, we offer competitive rewards and benefits, making Sherwin-Williams a truly rewarding place to advance your career while contributing to meaningful projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R&D Fire Coatings Lead – Innovation & Growth in Bolton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the coatings industry and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their Fire Protection Coatings portfolio inside out, so you can showcase how your experience aligns with their innovation goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your leadership style and technical expertise can drive product development and optimisation. Confidence is key when discussing your vision for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in being part of our team at Sherwin-Williams.
We think you need these skills to ace R&D Fire Coatings Lead – Innovation & Growth in Bolton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the R&D Fire Coatings Lead role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant projects you've managed in the coatings industry.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about fire protection coatings and how your background aligns with our innovation goals. Be sure to mention any experience with cross-functional teams and stakeholder engagement.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on quantifiable achievements. Did you lead a project that improved product performance? Share those results! We love seeing how you've made a tangible impact in your previous positions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sherwin-Williams
✨Know Your Fire Coatings
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and innovations in fire protection coatings. Understand the technical aspects, formulation improvements, and compliance standards that are crucial for the role. This will show your passion and expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led R&D teams in the past. Highlight your ability to set clear goals, manage performance, and foster a collaborative culture. This is key for the role, so be ready to discuss specific situations where you made a positive impact.
✨Engage with Cross-Functional Teams
Demonstrate your experience in collaborating with various teams and external stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve worked with customers and certification bodies to drive product development and optimisation. This will illustrate your ability to navigate complex relationships.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to R&D processes, safety, quality, and compliance. Brush up on your knowledge of laboratory standards and be ready to provide clear recommendations based on your analysis of results. This will showcase your technical expertise and problem-solving skills.
