Director - R&D - Diaper & Hygiene Care Industry

Responsible for all research including setting R&D function and budget to align with strategic plans product development, scouting for new products and formulation activities from product conception to commercialization. This includes responsibility for the quality and safety of all products. The client is seeking an entrepreneurial strategic thinker, to operate in a fast-paced environment, willing and able to embrace change.

The position plays a significant role in helping to set the strategic direction for product development and commercialization activities in conjunction with cross-functional teams. The role of the product development and commercialization function is to combine strategic foresight in developing solution-based products.

Major Responsibilities:

Provide strategic direction in new product development, identifying and developing new product opportunities leading to the commercialization of new products and for application in the diaper & hygiene care industry.

Coordinate research to identify new product opportunities or support the application of current products.

Provide leadership in the preparation of materials in support of commercialization and sales of new and improved products and programs.

Assure appropriate quality testing procedures are in place and liaise with the operations department in the scale-up of new products as part of the product launch process.

Assure necessary quality certifications are in place at all manufacturing operations.

Focus and prioritize product development, formulation and testing projects and associated scale-up investment costs in relation to market potential in conjunction with the marketing, business development and operations functions.

Drive the acquisition of new technologies that would lead to new product applications.

Work closely with corporate function to secure proprietary positions on new product applications and ensure freedom to operate.

Motivate and develop team.

Desired Skills and Experience:

Masters in Chemistry, or related field from a recognized university.

At least 10-15 years of broad experience in cutting edge diaper & hygiene care industry, with a proven track record of accomplishment in product commercialization by taking products based on new technologies successfully to the market.

A business-orientated technologist with a commercialization focus, to provide leadership, set priorities, delegate responsibilities, and meet timetables leading to the attainment of goals.

Experience as an effective manager, project team player, leader and motivator with the ability to present ideas effectively and communicate well with all levels within a team environment.

Excellent presentation skills and experience in making presentations

Demonstrated project management skills, including forecasting skills, project planning and the development of project timelines.

Experience in dealing with challenging problems, setting strategies, prioritizing and implementing appropriate research programs.

Strong track record of focus towards external and internal customers.

Experience in establishing innovation activities through external collaborations.

A high degree of personal motivation, a desire to make an immediate contribution and a sense of urgency and excitement.

Excellent written and oral communication skills.