VP Global Product Development

VP Global Product Development

Polymer Additives

Summary: We are retained with a global client who makes additives for polymers. They are looking for a VP of Product Development to head up global research and product development initiatives and move this function forward in the organization. This is a key part of the executive team, and a fantastic employer.

Experience Snapshot: In a nutshell, our client is looking for an executive with deep experience in R&D in polymer additives. Other backgrounds that might be considered would be development of colors, masterbatches, and engineering resins. Significant product development leadership experience is a requirement, and this is not a commercial or marketing role.

NOTES: Please note that this is a nationwide search and may be advertised outside of the actual location of the role. Must be able to work in the US without Visa sponsorship.

WHY IS THIS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY?

• Global leadership opportunity.
• Opportunity to re-shape the Product Development/R&D function and bring it to the next level.
• Big enough company that there are great benefits, but small enough to have a “family feel”, where everyone is part of one team, working in the right direction.
• You will be joining a culture who believes in controlled growth, mutual respect, integrity and teamwork.
• Reponsible for product innovation strategies and execution.
• Strong benefits, salary, and relocation package.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with Sales, Marketing and Operations to identify and develop potential products that will meet current customer needs or create market opportunities with current or new customers. .
• Innovation of current and future product portfolio.
• Manage the development and lab teams creating robust formulations that meet the needs of our current and future customers.
• Create solutions to existing product performance opportunities and generate product performance improvements.
• Utilize sound project management skills to ensure projects are successfully completed on time and within Budget
• Assist in conducting plant trials, build prototypes, etc. during product development phases
• Work closely with sub-suppliers, manufacturing partners, and with outside/3rd party listing agencies to ensure products are in compliance with requirements (where applicable).
• Continue to refine and improve product development processes
• Confer with legal staff for copyright, intellectual property, and royalty issues.
• Stay abreast of the state of the art in our industry.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's Degree in Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or similar. Advanced degrees are welcome.
• 10 years experience creating formulations for polymer additives; or perhaps engineering resins, masterbatches & Color concentrates.
• Very strong knowledge of typical lab equipment and tests needed for polymer analysis (impact, tensile, melt flow, hardness, UV, etc.
• Extremely strong knowledge of polymer additives and fillers.
• 5 years of product development and lab management experience with a manufacturer of additives, engineering compounds, masterbatches or color concentrates.
• Very strong project management experience.
• Team based management style, and a “do what it takes” personality.