The Head of R&D leads the MotulTech R&D and lab team. The position is actively involved in the development of innovative solutions, working with suppliers and other partners to improve existing products and develop new formulations, with a focus on performance, cost and EHS. The Head of R&D is in charge of managing the lab team to resolve customer complaints, ensuring safe work practices in the lab and general administration. The head of R&D works closely with the MotulTech management, PM Teams, Sales teams and internal stake holders to put the global strategy in action.  

·       R&D Strategy : Develop new & innovative product formulations in house for a sustained and robust portfolio which includes Metal working fluids (Soluble and Neat), Deformation, Heat treatment, Corrosion preventives, Industrial cleaners, Wire drawing, General Industrial.

·       Raw Material Strategy : Work closely with the procurement team and identify new raw materials to improve significantly existing product portfolio.

·       Work closely with EHS to insure product compliance and improve EHS performance as per the EU guidelines and group strategy

·       Coordinate R&D and lab activities with MotulTech worldwide

·       Support manufacturing plants from time to time against any product parameters variation during production.

·       Identify and work with 3rd labs and research institutes for various OEM/Machine tool approvals for Industrial products.

·       Establish systems and procedures for lab equipment’s and QC process as per ISO, TS. OSHAS standards and Motul group standards.

·       Identify equipment’s / consumables and other ancillary equipment’s required for required for smooth functioning of the R&D lab. Manage the R&D lab budget within allocation.

·       Integration of global manufacturing plants and D Centers with Motul SA, R&D lab to ensure common product formulations and raw materials.

·       Working closely with external as well as internal business partners to oversee portfolio requirements

Education Background

·       Masters Degree / PhD in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry or related discipline desirable

·       MBA or equivalent post graduate degree preferred.

Technical skills

·       10 – 20 years of lubricant industry experience working in a R&D lab is must. Managing teams in multiple locations is desirable

·       Minimum 5 years of team management, in multicultural environment,

·       Experience in developing formulations for Industrial products is essential.

·       Knowledge of formulations for product groups like Metal Working oils (Soluble and Neat’s), Deformation, Heat Treatment, Corrosion Preventives and Industrial Cleaners portfolio. (Essential)

·       Knowledge of quality management systems : TS 16949, ISO, OSHAS, REACH, guidelines

·       Trouble Shooting and Conflict resolution

·       Market intelligence and competition analysis

·       Project Management

·       Knowledge of SAP is desirable.

Generic skills

·       Strategic and Innovative Mindset

·       Business understanding and Customer focus

·       Drive for Results

·       Presentation and communication skills

·       Motul Spirit

·       Transparent Communication

·       Strong Interpersonal skills

·       Willing to travel from 10 to 20% of time on the field. This is a global role and would require to handle queries in different time zones

Languages: English – Desirable: French/Italian or German  -  Any other language : Optional