Vacancy Detail
Head of R&D and Quality
Talent STEM are partnering with a specialist materials manufacturing business operating within a highly regulated environment. This organisation has built a strong reputation for quality, innovation and technical expertise, supplying products into demanding industrial and healthcare markets.
Due to continued growth and investment, they are seeking an experienced technical leader to take ownership of site-wide R&D, quality and compliance activities.
The Opportunity
This is a senior leadership position with responsibility for all technical operations on site. You will lead research and development programmes, oversee quality systems and provide technical direction across manufacturing and regulatory activities.
Working closely with senior management, you will play a key role in driving product innovation, ensuring compliance with industry standards and supporting the transfer of new technologies into production.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all research and development activities, including new product development and continuous improvement initiatives
- Provide technical oversight of quality control and quality assurance systems
- Maintain and develop Quality Management Systems within a regulated framework
- Act as technical lead for audits, regulatory inspections and external reporting
- Oversee technical documentation including specifications, safety data and compliance records
- Support scale up from laboratory to full manufacturing, ensuring robust validation and risk assessment
- Investigate customer complaints and implement corrective actions
- Collaborate with commercial teams on technical discussions with customers and partners
- Ensure high standards of chemical safety, environmental compliance and laboratory best practice
- Develop and mentor a small technical team
About You
We are looking for a technically strong and commercially aware leader who thrives in a hands on environment.
You will likely bring:
- A PhD or equivalent advanced qualification in Chemistry or closely related discipline
- Significant experience within polymer, coatings, advanced materials or related sectors
- Experience operating within a regulated manufacturing environment
- Strong knowledge of quality management systems and compliance frameworks
- A solid understanding of chemical health and safety
- The ability to balance strategic leadership with practical laboratory involvement
- Excellent communication skills and a collaborative leadership style
Why Apply?
This is an opportunity to take full technical ownership within a growing and ambitious business.
You will have the autonomy to shape technical strategy while remaining close to innovation and product development.
For a confidential discussion, please contact Talent STEM directly.
Location: Hertfordshire | Salary: £50000 - £60000 per year | Job type: Permanent | Posted: 16/02/2026
