R&D Senior Project Leader
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About the role
We are looking for an experienced Senior Project Leader to join our UK Research & Development team. This role plays a key part in leading and delivering complex, high‑impact R&D projects across the business, spanning product development, product maintenance, and innovation activities, primarily in the area of hybrid polyurethane cement flooring systems such as Sika® Ucrete®.
You will take ownership of projects from concept through to implementation, ensuring disciplined execution in line with our Product Creation Process (PCP), while upholding the highest standards of safety, quality, and technical integrity.
This is an excellent opportunity for a technically strong and structured project leader who enjoys working cross‑functionally and driving robust outcomes in an industrial R&D environment.
Key responsibilities
Lead and deliver cross‑functional R&D projects from concept to implementation, owning scope, objectives, timelines, risks, and deliverables
Execute projects in line with structured product development processes (e.g. PCP / stage‑gate)
Coordinate and align inputs from R&D, Operations, Quality, Marketing, and Supply Chain
Act as the technical project lead within assigned technology areas, defining experimental strategy and reviewing data quality and conclusions
Provide day‑to‑day coordination, technical guidance, and mentorship within project teams (without direct line management responsibility)
Ensure full compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements across all project activities
Support product maintenance, troubleshooting, and root‑cause investigations linked to projects
Contribute to innovation and continuous improvement initiatives, including feasibility studies and proof‑of‑concept work
Interface with external partners such as universities, suppliers, and global R&D colleagues when required
What success looks like
Projects delivered on time, to agreed scope, cost, and quality
High levels of compliance in PCP audits and project documentation
Effective resolution of complex technical challenges
Strong safety performance with minimal audit findings
Positive feedback from project stakeholders and team members
Tangible contributions to innovation pipelines, new products, or intellectual property
About you
You are a structured and delivery‑focused professional with a strong technical background and proven experience leading complex R&D projects in an industrial setting.
Essential qualifications and experience:
Degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline
Strong experience in industrial R&D, primarily in the area of hybrid polyurethane cement flooring systems. Experience in formulating other thermoset resin coating and flooring systems is also relevant.
Proven track record of leading complex technical or development projects
Sound knowledge of structured product development processes (e.g. PCP, stage‑gate)
Key competencies:
Disciplined, well‑organised, and delivery‑oriented mindset
Strong project management and organisational skills
Clear and confident communicator across technical and non‑technical audiences
High standards of integrity, safety, and quality
Proactive and solutions‑oriented, with the confidence to challenge constructively
Eligibility
This role is open to candidates who are eligible to work in the UK.
We offer competitive salaries, aligned with local market benchmarks and the specific scope and responsibilities of each role. Compensation is determined based skills relevant to the position, education and/or training. We are committed to fair and equitable pay practices in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.