UK Development Manager

Job Description

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Beckers is a privately-owned, global coatings company that develops high-quality environmentally compatible paint systems. Our expertise is based on our long history dating back over 150 years. 1,800 people worked at 24 production sites in 18 countries, providing products and custom-made solutions to customers in close to 60 countries around the world.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prioritise, progress and report on laboratory development projects in support of the Industrial Coatings UK business. These will include, but not be limited to, improvements on existing products to meet evolving customer needs and specifications. Evaluation of new technologies and formulation of novel coating solutions that will help in the fulfilment of Beckers sustainability targets whilst providing practical and commercially acceptable coating solutions for our customers
• Manage other chemists / technicians who may be supporting the project work
• Work closely with the sales and technical service teams in order to understand and inform customer expectations. Provide regular progress reports and review of project priorities
• Provide formal written reports to management and the sales team to summarise development work and detail relevant surface preparation, application and curing information as appropriate
• In conjunction with the Technical Manager, liaise with raw material suppliers in order to maintain an awareness of emerging technologies and product improvements. Initiate proposals for new paint development activities that embrace these new technologies where they fit with Beckers goals in relation to customer support and sustainability
• To undertake practical laboratory work if required and to be competent in the safe operation of laboratory equipment
• To adhere to the Becker’s code of conduct and promote Beckers values and culture

KEY SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURS REQUIRED

• You will be a self starter with the ability to work with a minimum of supervision
• Detailed knowledge of a wide range of industrial coatings technology and formulations. Experience of polyurethane and epoxy technology would be an advantage
• A working knowledge of industrial paint application processes and the impact that the different techniques have on paint formulation
• Detailed knowledge of paint testing encompassing both physical, performance and environmental aspects
• A good team player with a proven ability to interface well with colleagues at all levels within the organisation
• Ability to motivate and manage others
• Ability to work under pressure and manage the changing demands that can arise within a customer focused, dynamic organisation

RELEVANT TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

• A University Degree, or equivalent, in Chemistry or a closely related discipline
• At least 5 years of industrial paint formulation experience
• Experience of working within a multi-disciplinary team
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Working knowledge of all aspects Microsoft Office
• Good presentation skills
• A “hands on” approach to laboratory work along with the ability to delegate to others as appropriate to best use all of the resources available

DETAILS OF THE ROLE 

• In return you will receive a competitive salary and benefits including;
• 25 days holiday per annum
• Contributory pension scheme
• Holiday purchase scheme
• Plus lots of high street discounts!

This role will be based in Speke, Liverpool.  Your hours of work will be 36.5 hours per week with a working schedule Monday – Thursday 8.30am – 4.45pm and Friday 8.30am – 3.45pm.

Beckers are committed to being an inclusive employer and encourage applications from all suitable applicants irrespective of background, circumstances, age, disability, gender identity, ethnicity, religion or belief and sexual orientation.

If you would like to apply to this position or to find out more about this vacancy, please send your CV to [email protected]