Chief Scientific Officer in Hailsham

Chief Scientific Officer in Hailsham

Hailsham Full-Time 81000 - 99000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Terry Parris Associates

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead technology strategy and innovation in advanced materials.
  • Company: Pioneering engineering firm focused on scientific development.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days annual leave, and career growth opportunities.
  • Other info: Hands-on role based in Hailsham with occasional travel.
  • Why this job: Make a lasting impact in a tech-led business with exciting new opportunities.
  • Qualifications: 15-20 years in technical leadership, advanced manufacturing knowledge required.

The predicted salary is between 81000 - 99000 £ per year.

  • Chief Technology Officer (CTO) / Chief Scientific Officer (CSO)
  • Sussex
  • Job
  • Type: Permanent | Full-time
  • Working

Hours: 37.5 hours per week Lead the technology and innovation strategy of a pioneering advanced materials business We are seeking an exceptional Chief Technology Officer (CTO) / Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) to join an innovative, internationally focused engineering and advanced materials business operating at the forefront of specialist manufacturing and scientific development.

This is a senior leadership opportunity for an experienced technical professional who wants to do more than manage an R&D function.

You will play a central role in defining the organisation's technology vision, product roadmap and future direction, helping turn scientific and engineering innovation into commercially successful products and solutions.

Working closely with the Managing Director and wider leadership team, you will provide the technical vision, strategic leadership and scientific expertise needed to support continued growth into new markets and emerging technology areas.

The Opportunity This is a highly influential role spanning technology strategy, scientific research, engineering, product development and innovation.

You will quickly develop a deep understanding of the company's existing scientific and technical capabilities before helping shape what comes next — identifying opportunities in new materials, advanced manufacturing technologies and innovative applications.

You'll have the opportunity to influence investment decisions, build technical capability, develop senior talent and establish the roadmap for the next generation of products and technologies.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and deliver the company's technology, scientific and R&D strategy, aligned with long-term commercial objectives.
  • Define and maintain a clear technology and product roadmap, balancing customer requirements, commercial opportunities and technical capability.
  • Lead and develop the R&D and technical teams, providing direction, mentoring and support while building future technical leadership capability.
  • Identify and evaluate emerging technologies, materials and processes, turning promising research into viable products and solutions.
  • Oversee R&D programmes from initial concept through development and into delivery readiness.
  • Work closely with commercial, product and engineering functions to ensure technology investment is aligned with customer and market needs.
  • Provide high-level technical and scientific advice to the Managing Director and wider leadership team.
  • Support the identification, recruitment and development of senior technical talent.
  • Ensure product creation and development processes deliver against quality, time and cost objectives, while meeting relevant regulatory and quality requirements.
  • Manage technology budgets, resources and development priorities effectively.
  • Ensure technology infrastructure, systems and platforms are appropriately developed, scalable and secure.
  • Protect the organisation's intellectual property, sensitive technical information and innovation pipeline.
  • Maintain a strong awareness of technology trends, competitors and developments across advanced materials, additive manufacturing and related industries.
  • Represent the organisation with customers, partners, investors and other senior stakeholders where required.
  • Support a culture of scientific curiosity, engineering excellence and continuous innovation.

What We're Looking For We are looking for an accomplished technical leader with substantial experience working within complex engineering, manufacturing or capital equipment environments.

You'll ideally bring

  • 15–20 years' experience in senior technical, engineering, scientific or technology leadership roles.
  • Experience leading complex technology or engineering programmes within a capital goods, advanced manufacturing or similarly sophisticated industrial environment.
  • A bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Engineering or a closely related discipline, ideally complemented by a master's degree in an engineering or scientific subject.
  • Chartered Engineer or equivalent professional status would be highly advantageous.
  • Strong knowledge of advanced manufacturing, additive manufacturing, powder metallurgy, materials science or related emerging technologies.
  • A proven ability to develop and execute technology strategies that support commercial growth.
  • Experience leading multidisciplinary R&D and engineering teams.
  • Strong commercial awareness and the ability to connect scientific and technical opportunities with business outcomes.
  • Excellent strategic thinking, decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
  • The communication skills and credibility to engage effectively with engineers, scientists, customers, executives and investors.
  • A track record of taking innovative concepts through development towards practical, commercially viable solutions.

Your Impact You'll be joining at an exciting point in the organisation's development, with new business opportunities and technology areas emerging.

The successful candidate will have genuine scope to influence the future — from determining which technologies and materials the business invests in, to developing the people and capabilities required to deliver them.

For someone who combines deep technical expertise with strategic vision, commercial awareness and strong leadership, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact on an ambitious technology-led business.

Location & Travel The role is based at the company's Hailsham site and requires regular on-site presence due to the hands-on nature of the engineering, manufacturing and R&D environment.

The position may involve occasional UK travel and short overseas visits to support an international customer base.

This role cannot be fulfilled on a remote basis.

Additional Requirements & Benefits - Full UK driving licence and ability to travel internationally when required. - 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays. - Permanent position. - Immediate start available.

Interested, Apply for more information

Chief Scientific Officer in Hailsham employer: Terry Parris Associates

Hanover Displays is an exceptional employer located in Lewes, East Sussex, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and growth. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, the company provides generous benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, private medical insurance, and a robust pension scheme, alongside opportunities for professional development and recognition for long service. Join a collaborative team where your contributions to continuous improvement in electronics manufacturing are valued and rewarded.

Terry Parris Associates

Contact Details:

Terry Parris Associates Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Chief Scientific Officer in Hailsham

Join Engineering Meetups!

Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Chief Scientific Officer role you’re after at Terry Parris Associates.

Show Off Your Projects!

Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Terry Parris Associates a taste of what you can bring to the table!

Engage with Online Communities

Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Terry Parris Associates.

Apply Through Company Websites

When you spot a role like Chief Scientific Officer at Terry Parris Associates, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.

We think you need these skills to ace Chief Scientific Officer in Hailsham

Technology Strategy Development
Scientific Research
Engineering Leadership
Product Development
Advanced Manufacturing Knowledge
Additive Manufacturing Expertise
Materials Science Understanding

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Chief Scientific Officer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.

Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Terry Parris Associates a clear picture of the value you can bring.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Terry Parris Associates specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!

Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.

How to prepare for a job interview at Terry Parris Associates

Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles

Before heading into the interview with Terry Parris Associates, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!

Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills

Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.

Relate Your Experience to the Role

In a full-time role, employers like Terry Parris Associates want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.

Know Your Tools and Software

Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.