Head of R&D / Innovation (Material Science / Polymer / Chemistry)

Overview

Head of R&D / Innovation (Material Science / Polymer / Chemistry) (1572) Selangor, Malaysia — We are currently seeking an accomplished Head of Innovation to join a leading advanced manufacturing company recognized for its high-performance, sustainable products across global markets. This senior leadership role will focus on pioneering material innovations, driving cost efficiencies, enhancing product performance, and leading the development of breakthrough product features. You will be instrumental in shaping the innovation roadmap while managing a high-performing team and delivering commercially successful outcomes.

Reporting to : Senior Management

Team size : 20 – 30 people

Work Mode : On-site, with deep involvement in R&D and material development

Culture : Collaborative, performance-driven, and innovation-focused

The Role

• Innovation Leadership : Develop and implement a robust product innovation strategy with a core focus on material breakthroughs, product enhancement, and cost optimization.
• Technology & Trend Scouting : Monitor global trends and emerging technologies to identify material opportunities that offer performance and sustainability advantages.
• Team Management : Inspire, guide, and grow a multi-disciplinary R&D team, fostering a culture of experimentation, technical rigor, and continuous learning.
• Product Development : Lead the design and development of next-generation products with differentiated features and improved functionality.
• Commercial Alignment : Ensure R&D outputs are commercially viable and aligned with customer needs and market opportunities.
• Cross-functional Collaboration : Work closely with manufacturing, quality, regulatory, and commercial teams to ensure seamless product scale-up and market launch.
• External Partnerships : Engage with suppliers, research institutions, and innovation partners to accelerate development and tap into specialized expertise.
• Project Execution : Oversee complex innovation projects from concept through commercialization, ensuring timely delivery, budget adherence, and measurable impact.
• Continuous Improvement : Champion best practices, process improvements, and knowledge sharing to raise the innovation team’s performance and agility.

The Experience

How to Apply

Please send your updated CV in Microsoft Word or PDF format to Shash Prasanan at . We welcome candidates who are passionate about pushing the boundaries of product innovation.

Name : Please include your first and last name.

Email : Please include your contact email.

Phone : Please include your country code and phone number.

CV / Resume : Yes, I am currently eligible to work (work permit / visa / citizenship) in the country to which I am applying. No, I am not currently eligible to work (work permit / visa / citizenship) in the country to which I am applying.

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