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- Tasks: Lead product innovation and shape the future of materials science at our Croydon Innovation Centre.
- Company: Join Zotefoams, a forward-thinking company dedicated to innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving change and delivering commercially successful products.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in innovation and a degree in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values courage, respect, and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Director of Product Innovation & Head of UK Innovation Centre to lead the strategic direction and daily operations of our Innovation Centre in Croydon.
This role will be central in shaping Zotefoams’ product development pipeline, ensuring that innovation translates into measurable commercial success. You will lead a team of scientists and technologists, aligning innovation projects to market opportunities and delivering long-term growth through new product development.
Role Responsibilities
- Ensure safe, compliant, and efficient operation of the UK Innovation Centre.
- Lead, manage, and develop the Product Innovation team to deliver against agreed business and innovation targets.
- Drive revenue growth through new products, delivering a strong contribution to the 5-Year Vitality Index.
- Collaborate cross-functionally to strengthen commercialisation effectiveness.
- Manage the Innovation Centre budget, allocating resources efficiently to high-priority projects.
- Shape and manage the product innovation portfolio in collaboration with global Innovation and Commercial teams.
- Stay ahead of emerging materials, technologies, and processes in polymer/plastics processing and foaming.
- Manage and safeguard Intellectual Property arising from new product development.
What you\’ll need
- Proven leadership in innovation, R&D, or product development in materials science or polymers.
- Track record of delivering commercially successful products through structured development.
- Deep technical knowledge of plastics processing, materials behaviour, and foaming technologies.
- Experience leading multi-disciplinary teams and working cross-functionally with commercial stakeholders.
- Strategic thinker, able to align technical innovation with business needs.
- Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline.
What we\’re looking for
- A confident and experienced leader with the courage to drive change.
- Commercially minded and results-focused, with a track record of delivering growth through innovation.
- Inclusive and collaborative, with strong people leadership skills.
- Curious and innovative, staying at the forefront of materials and processing technology.
Why Join Us?
At Zotefoams, we believe in fostering a supportive and innovative environment where everybody can thrive. By joining us, you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, continuous improvement, and opportunities for professional growth and development.
Our Values
Courage – The courage to take bold action to ensure that we succeed in tackling our challenges and opportunities.
Impact – Dedicated to making a significant and positive impact in everything we do.
Respect – Cultivate a respectful and inclusive environment where everyone is valued and collaboration is encouraged.
Zotefoams is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees
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Director of Product Innovation & Head of UK Innovation Centre Innovation · Croydon · employer: Zotefoams Plc
Contact Detail:
Zotefoams Plc Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Product Innovation & Head of UK Innovation Centre Innovation · Croydon ·
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend relevant events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can open doors that applications alone can’t.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their innovation strategies and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to shine and show them why you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for innovation! During interviews or networking chats, share your ideas about emerging materials and technologies. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about the field and can contribute fresh perspectives.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for innovative thinkers like you to join our team at Zotefoams.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Product Innovation & Head of UK Innovation Centre Innovation · Croydon ·
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your leadership in innovation and any relevant projects you've led, especially in materials science or polymers.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Director of Product Innovation role. Share specific examples of how you've driven growth through innovation and how you align with our values.
Showcase Your Technical Knowledge: Don’t shy away from diving into the technical details! We want to see your deep understanding of plastics processing and foaming technologies. This will help us gauge your fit for leading our Innovation Centre.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Zotefoams!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zotefoams Plc
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of materials science and polymers. Be ready to discuss specific technologies and processes related to plastics processing and foaming. This will show that you’re not just a leader, but also technically savvy.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led multi-disciplinary teams in the past. Highlight your ability to drive change and foster collaboration. This is key for a role that requires managing a diverse team and aligning innovation with business needs.
✨Align Innovation with Business Goals
Think about how you can connect your innovative ideas to measurable commercial success. Be ready to discuss how you’ve previously driven revenue growth through new products and how you plan to do the same at Zotefoams.
✨Be Curious and Forward-Thinking
Demonstrate your passion for staying ahead of emerging materials and technologies. Share insights on recent trends in the industry and how they could impact product development. This shows that you’re not just reactive but proactive in your approach to innovation.
