Research and Development Director Filtration and Life Sciences Toulouse
R&D Director
Filtration and Life Sciences
Toulouse
R&D Director
Filtration and Life Sciences
Toulouse
A fantastic opportunity has arisen for the position of Filtration & Life Sciences R&D Director in France, with our client, a global leader in mineral-based specialty solutions, with 14,000 employees operating in over 40 countries, and €3.8 billion in revenue in 2023.
Job Summary:
The Filtration & Life Sciences R&D Director will lead Science & Technology (R&D) efforts for PM EMEA, aligning with company and regional business strategies (EMEA & APAC). This role will focus on driving innovation for key markets such as Agriculture, Animal Feed, Filtration, Water Treatment, Cat Litter, Cosmetics, the Food Industry, and Absorbents.
This full-time, permanent position is based in Toulouse, France, with flexibility for hybrid working (one day per week from home). This role reports to the VP of Innovation.
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead a team of 20 scientists and professionals across France and the UK, supporting a market with €250M in annual revenue.
• Develop new technologies, applications, and services in the Filtration & Life Sciences sector.
• Build and maintain relationships with customers' R&D teams.
• Drive new product development (NPD) and execute long-term innovation projects.
• Create and implement a 5-year innovation roadmap.
• Work closely with business leaders to prioritize technical projects and strategies.
• Collaborate with commercial, marketing, and operational teams across EMEA and other regions (Americas, APAC).
• Attract, develop, and retain top talent, providing career growth opportunities.
• Ensure lab safety, manage laboratory assets, and oversee operational budgets.
Accountabilities:
• Efficiently allocate resources to deliver timely technological solutions.
• Co-manage the R&D project portfolio, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Maintain laboratory safety and ensure proper asset management.
• Drive team development and actively manage the IP portfolio.
Required Competencies & Experience:
• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 15+ years of experience, with 5-10 years in leadership roles within R&D, particularly in filtration or life sciences.
• Proven ability to manage large teams, lead technology development, and launch new products.
• Strong interpersonal and business acumen.
• Experience managing international teams is a plus.
• Ability to build and maintain external technical networks and partnerships.
• Availability for international business trips (around 40%).
What We Offer:
In recognition of your expertise and dedication, we offer a permanent contract with a highly competitive compensation package, including bonuses and comprehensive benefits. This role offers significant potential for career growth, with clear pathways for advancement within a well-established, prestigious company in a dynamic international environment.
Interested candidates who meet the qualifications are invited to submit their CV in English to akman.atilgan@conexusrecruitment.com. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.