R&D Manager

An experienced R&D Manager with mechanical engineering expertise is sought to lead the R&D team. This role involves managing a small team of engineers, scientists, and technicians to develop and improve a range of innovative chemistry equipment while also playing a 'hands-on' mechanical engineering role. The position offers a dynamic environment, collaborating with experienced technical experts to create products advancing chemical research.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a multidisciplinary R&D team, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence through communication.
• Manage the New Product Development (NPD) process from concept through production, ensuring technical excellence, quality, and cost-efficiency while collaborating with internal and external partners.
• Oversee the strategic Product Development Programme (PDP), aligning with market demands and organizational objectives.
• Support the New Product Introduction (NPI) process for smooth project transitions into production and launch.
• Oversee the Engineering Change Request (ECR) process.
• Design innovative solutions meeting customer needs while leading individual NPD and product improvement projects.
• Conduct mechanical and electromechanical design using SolidWorks.
• Evaluate and integrate mechanical and electronic components.
• Source materials and mitigate supplier bottlenecks.
• Establish test protocols, collect data, and analyze results.
• Plan and cost projects, including creating project plans, timelines, and budgets.
• Prepare and update product documentation, such as instructions, production packs, BOMs, and QA/testing procedures.
  
  

An experienced people manager and mechanical engineer with a proven track record in industrial or R&D environments. The ideal candidate will:

• Be skilled in team management, technical project delivery, and motivating high-performance teams.
• Hold expertise in mechanical design and a solid understanding of electronic design.
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of SolidWorks and manufacturing processes.
• Possess excellent communication skills and the ability to present ideas effectively.
• Lead the R&D team to develop innovative chemistry productivity tools, collaborating with engineers and scientists.
  
  

• Minimum 5 years' management experience building and managing high-performance teams.
• Minimum 10 years' experience in an industrial or R&D environment delivering projects on time and budget.
• Expertise in project management and team leadership.
• Degree in mechanical or electromechanical engineering.
• Design experience with mechanical and electronic products/components.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials.
• Ideally, knowledge of electronics circuit design and implementation.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks and SolidWorks PDM.
• Supplier management experience, including sourcing and negotiating.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
  
  

• Positive 'can-do' attitude.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Drive and determination to overcome obstacles.
• Enthusiasm for engineering with a hands-on approach.
• Organized with attention to detail.
• Willingness to engage directly in practical work.
  
  

• Comprehensive induction plan and ongoing training and development.
• Five weeks' holiday plus bank holidays.
• Pension contributions.
• Competitive salary.
• Flexible working hours and remote options.
• Discretionary annual bonus.
• Regular social events and company updates.
• Well-being support.
• Diverse, inclusive, and sustainable workplace.
  
  

If you feel that you have the skills and experience required in this advertisement to be an R&D Manager - Mechanical Engineer, please submit your CV including an outline of your experience as an R&D Manager - Mechanical Engineer. It is always a good idea to include a covering letter outlining your experience as an R&D Manager - Mechanical Engineer with your application as this will enhance your chances of selection and improve your prospects of landing the R&D Manager - Mechanical Engineer role you desire.