Purpose of the job / Position description

The research and development manager leads the research, planning and implementation of new programs and protocols. Management of the development of new products or services.

Main responsibilities

The R&D Manager has the following main responsibilities:

• Lead key projects with R&D to support business goals.
• Develop research programs incorporating current developments to improve existing products and study the potential of new products.
• Understand customer expectations on to-be manufactured products.
• Determine and execute improved technologies used by suppliers and customers.
• Establish project goals and priorities by collaborating with Marketing and Operations.
• Transfer new technologies, products, and manufacturing processes into and out of the company.
• Research, design and evaluate materials, assemblies, processes, and equipment.
• Monitor team metrics and objectives ensuring meeting of goals.
• Managing Document all phases of research and development.
• Establish and maintain testing procedures for assessing raw materials, in-process and finished products.
• Oversee complex research projects, analyze results and provide recommendations based on findings.
• Assess the scope of research projects and ensure they are on time and within budget.

Qualifications

(minimum level of knowledge and skills to fulfill one’s responsibilities)

Work experience needed

• 5 years of management experience in product development / technical service after studies

•           Practical knowledge of papermaking technology including wet-end chemistry and coated paper.

•           Sound technical skills that can translate to the job in hand

•           Experimental design and statistical analysis an advantage

•           Provider of robust technical solutions (both for the application and the production process)

Minimum formal education

  •     Bachelor’s degree in papermaking, chemistry, chemical engineering, engineer or a doctor in chemistry, physic, paper or barrier technology.

Required competencies

Primary competencies

• Pro-active learner, not afraid to ask questions and challenge the status quo
• Integrate quickly into a site group while working in a location separate from immediate supervisor and in a matrix organization
• Excellent communications skills in a multicultural, multi-location organization
• Avoid becoming distracted away from agreed priorities
• Fluency in Portuguese and in English
• Fast learner who can acquire new technical and application knowledge promptly