As the largest pureplay adhesives company in the world, H.B. Fuller’s (NYSE: FUL) innovative, functional coatings, adhesives and sealants enhance the quality, safety and performance of products people use every day. Founded in 1887, with 2023 revenue of $3.5 billion, our mission to Connect What Matters is brought to life by more than 7,000 global team members who collaborate with customers across more than 30 market segments in over 140 countries to develop highly specified solutions that enable customers to bring world-changing innovations to their end markets.
Position Overview
As the R&D Lab Manager for Hot Melt Adhesives in Hygiene Applications, you will lead a team of scientists and lab technicians dedicated to advancing hygiene adhesive technologies. You will oversee day-to-day lab operations, drive the development of innovative products.
Primary Responsibilities
As the R&D Lab Manager, you will:
· Lead and manage, mentor, and develop the team of lab technicians and scientists. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
· Oversee the development, scale-up, and commercialization of hot melt adhesive products using the stage-gate process. Ensure timely delivery of projects that align with business objectives.
· Plan and manage R&D projects, including defining project scope, timelines, resource allocation, and deliverables, to ensure successful execution
· Prioritize and allocate resources to optimize project outcomes, balancing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
· Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product management, engineering, marketing, and manufacturing, to ensure effective coordination and integration of R&D efforts with other departments.
· Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, standards, and intellectual property rights in all R&D activities.
· Monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and technological advancements to proactively identify potential opportunities and challenges for the organization.
Minimum Requirements
· Master’s or PhD Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
· Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
· Proven experience managing R&D teams in the adhesives, specialty chemicals, or related industries.
· Expertise in thermoplastic polymer chemistry