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- Tasks: Lead a hands-on R&D team to innovate and develop high-performance products.
- Company: Join a dynamic engineering and manufacturing business based in Bradford.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days holiday, a competitive salary, car allowance, and life assurance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a niche industry with strong growth ambitions and a collaborative culture.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical, Civil or Materials Engineering and 5+ years of relevant experience required.
- Other info: Opportunity to travel to customer sites and engage with cross-functional teams.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
White Label is exclusively representing an engineering and manufacturing business based in Bradford that require a passionate and practical R&D Manager to join their team. The R&D Manager will lead the Research & Development function, driving innovation and overseeing the development of high-performance products. The role is central to shaping my client’s future product strategy and strengthening their market presence.
My client is offering a salary in the region of £45,000 - £55,000 + car allowance plus:
- 35 days holiday (including bank holidays)
- Pension
- 36.25 hours per week
- Life assurance and more
Responsibilities of the R&D Manager:
- Leading a small, hands-on R&D team to deliver new product development projects from concept through to launch.
- Managing and improving existing product ranges to ensure compliance with industry standards and approvals.
- Supporting technical testing, including structural analysis and FEA.
- Writing technical specifications and reports for both internal teams and external partners.
- Liaising with suppliers, customers, and internal stakeholders to align product development with market needs.
- Driving product improvements through new materials, cost savings, or performance enhancements.
- Ensuring delivery of projects on time while supporting continuous improvement across quality, efficiency, and innovation.
- Travel to customer sites as and when required.
Experience required of the R&D Manager:
- Strong background in product development in a mechanical, structural or construction discipline.
- Degree qualified in Mechanical, Civil or Materials Engineering (or equivalent experience).
- 5+ years of experience, with at least 1 year managing or mentoring others.
- Strong technical understanding of materials like castings, steel, fasteners, or cold-formed parts would be advantageous.
- Confident communicator who can contribute to cross-functional meetings, especially with Sales and Operations teams.
This position is ideal for someone looking to make a real impact in a niche, engineering-led business with strong heritage and growth ambition.
Research And Development Manager employer: White Label Recruitment
Contact Detail:
White Label Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research And Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who may have insights into the company or role you're interested in.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the latest trends in product development, especially in mechanical and structural engineering. Being knowledgeable about current innovations can help you stand out during discussions with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing R&D teams and projects. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven innovation and improved product performance in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the company's existing product range and their market position. This will allow you to tailor your conversations and demonstrate how your skills can directly contribute to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Research And Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in product development, particularly in mechanical, structural, or construction disciplines. Emphasise any leadership roles you've held and specific projects that showcase your ability to drive innovation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also demonstrates your passion for R&D. Mention how your background aligns with the company's goals and how you can contribute to their product strategy.
Highlight Technical Skills: In your application, be sure to detail your technical understanding of materials and any relevant software or methodologies you are familiar with. This will show your potential employer that you have the necessary skills to support technical testing and product improvements.
Showcase Communication Abilities: Since the role requires liaising with various stakeholders, include examples in your application that demonstrate your strong communication skills. Highlight experiences where you successfully collaborated with cross-functional teams or presented technical information clearly.
How to prepare for a job interview at White Label Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As an R&D Manager, it's crucial to demonstrate your strong background in product development. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've led, focusing on your technical understanding of materials and engineering principles relevant to the role.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
Since the role involves managing a small R&D team, share examples of how you've successfully mentored or managed others in previous positions. Discuss your leadership style and how you foster collaboration and innovation within your team.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
The position requires liaising with various stakeholders, including Sales and Operations teams. Be ready to provide examples of how you've effectively communicated and collaborated across departments to align product development with market needs.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Innovation is key in this role, so prepare to discuss challenges you've faced in past projects and how you overcame them. Highlight your approach to driving product improvements and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
