Job Description
Are you constantly exploring, analyzing, and refining ideas? Do you have a passion for innovation and a strong desire to understand how things work—and how they can work even better? If so, this could be the ideal next step in your career.
For a leading international company in the specialty additives sector, we are looking for an R&D director to join a dynamic and high-performing team at their advanced Research Center in the Dordrecht region, Netherlands. This is a high-impact, strategically important role where you’ll have the opportunity to shape future innovation and drive technical excellence across global markets.
Responsibilities
- Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team of experienced scientists supporting R&D and Technical Service, especially in the field of architectural and industrial coatings.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing and Commercial teams to support customers and deliver business value.
- Operate on both tactical and strategic levels and act as a trusted partner to Business Unit leaders.
- Drive ideation, innovation management, and portfolio execution of R&D projects through a structured Stage Gate process.
- Identify new product opportunities and lead new product and technology platform developments.
- Manage operational and CAPEX budgets at a regional level.
- Build and maintain strategic partnerships with universities, suppliers, and other third parties to support innovation initiatives.
- Represent the company across Europe and globally, with travel expected up to 25%.
- Actively contribute to organizational goals with a strong focus on safety, performance, and talent development.
Requirements
- PhD or MSc in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science.
- Minimum of 10 years’ experience in technical roles across R&D and Technical Service within the specialty additives or coatings sector.
- At least 5 years of leadership experience managing regional or global R&D teams.
- Proven expertise in water-borne architectural and industrial coatings.
- Strong understanding of structure-property relationships and scientific methodologies in new product development.
- Demonstrated success in launching impactful new products.
- Experience working with international teams across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Latin America, and China.
- Fluent in English.
- High ethical standards and responsible behavior.
- Strong business acumen and a passion for innovation and change.
Preferred:
- PhD in Chemistry
- Foreign language proficiency
- Experience with Change Management initiatives
Company Profile
Our client is a global leader in specialty chemicals and additives, known for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer focus. The company operates in a dynamic, collaborative environment where creativity and problem-solving are encouraged. With a strong presence in global markets and a deep-rooted research tradition, the organization offers excellent opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Conditions
- Competitive salary starting 7000 euros based on 37.5h (fulltime)
- 13th month salary (annual bonus)
- Travel allowance of €0.21 per kilometer, up to 35 km one way
- Participation in the Companies Incentive Plan (Total Rewards Bonus)
- 27 vacation days per year
- 7 additional ADV
Contact
Do you recognize yourself in this profile or know someone who might be interested in this role? Or would you like to explore other opportunities? Feel free to contact Michelle van Deursen at M.vandeursen@morganlab.nl.
You can also apply directly on linkedin by sending your CV.
