Research And Development Manager

Job Title: Research & Development (R&D) Manager - Paints & Coatings

Location: Al Ain -UAE

Department: Research & Development

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and innovative R&D Manager to lead the development and improvement of paint and coating products. The ideal candidate will oversee formulation development, ensure product quality and compliance, and drive innovation aligned with market trends and customer requirements. This role requires strong technical expertise in coatings along with leadership and project management capabilities.

Key Responsibilities Product Development & Innovation

• Develop new paint and coating formulations (decorative, industrial, protective).
• Enhance existing products for performance, cost efficiency, and sustainability.
• Drive innovation in low-VOC, eco-friendly, and high-performance coatings.

Raw Material & Formulation Management

• Evaluate and approve raw materials including resins, pigments, additives, and solvents.
• Collaborate with suppliers to identify alternative and cost-effective materials.
• Maintain formulation documentation and technical data sheets.

Testing & Quality Control

• Oversee laboratory testing (viscosity, adhesion, drying time, gloss, durability, weather resistance).
• Ensure consistency and compliance with internal and external quality standards.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure all products meet environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Maintain compliance with local and international standards (e.g., VOC limits, REACH, ISO).

Process Scale-Up & Production Support

• Lead scale-up from lab to plant production.
• Troubleshoot production issues and optimize manufacturing processes.
• Work closely with production, QA, and supply chain teams.

Project & Team Management

• Manage R&D team including chemists and lab technicians.
• Plan and execute R&D projects, timelines, and budgets.
• Provide technical training and mentorship.

Market & Customer Alignment

• Analyze market trends, competitor products, and customer requirements.
• Support sales and technical teams with product knowledge and solutions.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.
• 7-12 years of experience in paints and coatings industry, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of coating technologies (water-based, solvent-based, powder coatings, epoxy, PU systems).

Skills & Competencies

• Expertise in paint formulation and coating chemistry
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Leadership and team management abilities
• Project management and organizational skills
• Familiarity with lab testing equipment and standards
• Knowledge of regulatory and environmental requirements
• Effective communication and cross-functional collaboration

Work Environment

• Combination of laboratory, office, and manufacturing plant exposure.