Synthomer is a leading supplier of high-performance, highly specialised polymers and ingredients that play vital roles in key sectors such as coatings, construction, adhesives, and health and protection – growing markets that serve billions of end users worldwide. Headquartered in London, UK and publicly listed there since 1971, we employ c.3,500 employees across our 5 innovation centres of excellence and more than 28 manufacturing sites across Europe, North America and Asia. Around 20% of our sales volumes are from new and patent protected products.At our innovation centres of excellence in the UK, Germany, China, Malaysia and Ohio, USA we collaborate closely with our customers to develop new products and enhance existing ones tailored to their needs, with an increasing range of sustainability benefits. Since 2021, we have been proud holders of the London Stock Exchange Green Economy Mark, which recognises green technology businesses making a significant contribution to a more sustainable, low-carbon economy.This is an exciting opportunity for a science or engineering candidate who is interested in developing a career at the intersection of technology, innovation, marketing and business development.Reporting to the Global Technical Manager, you will gain hands-on experience supporting key business initiatives while developing the commercial and technical skills needed for a successful career within a leading specialty chemicals company.What You'll Be DoingBusiness Development & GrowthSupport the identification and evaluation of new business opportunities across global marketsAssist with growth projects aimed at expanding applications, customer segments and market opportunitiesWork with commercial teams to understand customer requirements and emerging industry trendsBuild relationships with colleagues, customers and industry partners to support business development activitiesHelp prepare business cases and recommendations for new growth opportunitiesInnovation & Strategic ProjectsSupport the Vinyl Polymers innovation pipeline by researching new technologies, applications and market trendsAssist in the coordination of new product development and growth projectsWork with Commercial, R&D, Technical Service, Operations and Supply Chain teams to support project deliveryParticipate in Stage-Gate innovation projects and learn how new products move from concept to commercialisationMarketing & Market IntelligenceConduct market research on customers, competitors, technologies and industry trendsSupport marketing campaigns, conference activities and customer engagement initiativesAssist with the development of technical and promotional materialAnalyse market and business data to identify opportunities and provide actionable insightsHelp maintain market intelligence reports to support strategic decision-makingStakeholder CollaborationWork closely with colleagues across multiple business functions and regionPrepare presentations and reports for internal stakeholdersParticipate in customer meetings, industry events and project review sessionsSupport compliance with all SHE, regulatory and business requirementsWhat We're Looking ForDegree qualified in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Polymer Science or a related STEM disciplineMinimum of 12 months work experience within business development, marketing, innovation or commercialCurious and proactive mindset with a desire to learn about global markets and customer needsStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsComfortable analysing data and drawing meaningful conclusionsExcellent communication and presentation skillsStrong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple prioritiesCollaborative approach with the ability to work effectively across technical and commercial teamsWillingness to travel internationally and engage with customers and colleagues across different regionsWhat You'll GainExposure to global customers, markets and innovation projects.Opportunities to develop commercial, marketing and project management expertiseExperience working across R&D, Technical Service, Operations and Commercial functionsInternational exposure within a leading specialty chemicals businessWhy Join Synthomer?This is a unique opportunity to begin your career in a role that combines science, technology and business. You will gain broad exposure to global markets, customers and innovation projects while developing the skills and experience needed to become a future commercial leader within Synthomer.LocationIdeal locations UK/US Global Benefits Overview Competitive, market-aligned compensation Discretionary global bonus scheme Discretionary Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) – for senior positions Company car or car allowance – varies by region and role Healthcare – tailored to regional locations Parental leave and family support – maternity, paternity, adoption (aligned with regional policies) Working options – flexibility where it matters, based on role and business needs Learning & development opportunities – training, online platforms, buddy/mentorship programs, Internal Synthomer University with L&D offers Wellbeing support – employee assistance program (EAP), mental health resources, wellbeing initiatives Retirement / pension contributions – plans vary by country Culture of Inclusion – where everyone can thrive Performance culture, global reward & recognition programmesSummaryLocation: UK Harlow; US OH BeachwoodType: Full time
Business Development Manager & Marketing Manager in London employer: Synthomer
At Synthomer, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the specialty chemicals sector, offering a dynamic work environment at our Harlow manufacturing site. Our commitment to safety, continuous improvement, and employee development fosters a culture where every team member can thrive and contribute meaningfully. With competitive benefits, flexible working options, and a strong focus on sustainability, joining us as a Maintenance Manager means being part of a forward-thinking company dedicated to innovation and excellence.
