Sr. Manager of Catalyst Research

Company: Scientific Design LLC

Location: Little Ferry, NJ

Position Title: Sr. Manager, Catalysts Research

SUMMARY OF POSITION

Scientific Design is a leading licensor of chemical process technologies worldwide. Our ethylene oxide (EO) and ethylene glycol technologies are used in a wide range of products including polyesters, PET plastic bottles, antifreeze components and consumer products. With strong focus on research and development, Scientific Design continues to offer the highest performance catalysts and process technologies.

We are seeking a dynamic and seasoned professional to join our team as the Senior Manager (or higher, based on experience) for Catalyst Research. In this pivotal role, you will lead a technical team and oversee its operations within our core R&D team. Your leadership will play a crucial role in advancing new product development and enhancing existing product support. The position requires exceptional technical acumen and extensive expertise in heterogeneous catalysis, chemistry, and chemical engineering, particularly in EO chemistry and reaction engineering.

KEY ESPONSIBILITIES

• Leadership: Lead, inspire, and manage a team of scientists and engineers within the core R&D team, guiding them in supporting EO catalyst research, development, and commercialization. Conduct performance reviews and facilitate career development opportunities for team members.
• Technical oversight: Provide expert technical guidance to the team, who are responsible for catalyst synthesis, testing, and product support, ensuring the delivery of high-quality data and solutions, foster a deeper understanding of catalytic reactions and drive product innovation.
• Continuous improvement and collaboration: Identify opportunities for enhancing catalyst synthesis and testing methodologies. Foster collaboration with internal cross-functional teams and external partners to achieve team KPIs and drive business results.
• Operational oversight: Manage the team’s budget and liaise with other departments such as procurement and finance to ensure seamless workflow. Develop annual CAPEX plans and execute projects efficiently.
• Reporting: Deliver clear and concise oral and written reports and presentations to stakeholders and management, providing valuable insights into team achievements and progress.
• Safety: Uphold safety procedures and foster a culture of high safety standards within the team, ensuring a safe working environment for all team members.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or relevant disciplines, with 20+ years of industrial experience and 5+ years of management experience with direct reports.
• Demonstrated and comprehensive expertise in heterogenous catalysis, with a focus on catalyst testing methodologies and synthesis. Understanding of EO chemistry and testing preferred.
• Proven leadership ability and experience in a technical environment. Ability to not only lead but also empower the team and maintain high standards.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, encompassing effective presentations and report writing.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Self-starter with a proactive approach to problem-solving.

• Ability to drive individual and team performance with a sense of urgency.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Flexibility, creativity, and independence.

• Aptitude for working in cross-functional teams.

• Efficient organization, prioritization, and multitasking abilities.

• Commitment to delivering high quality technical solutions efficiently.