European Flexible Lamination R&D Manager Job

Mission Details

Europe Flexible Lamination R&D Manager
Location: Mozzate, Italy
Function: Research & Development – Advanced Packaging & Converting (Flexible Lamination)
Reports to: Global R&D Director
Direct Reports: 3-4 (Scientists / Technicians)

Position Overview
The Flexible Lamination R&D Manager leads regional research, development, and technical support activities for flexible lamination adhesives across Europe. Based at the Mozzate R&D site, the role combines people leadership, technical expertise, and R&D portfolio ownership to deliver innovative, competitive, and sustainable adhesive solutions aligned with business priorities.
The position is a key member of the Global Flexible Lamination R&D, acting as technical authority for the EMEA market and as an interface between R&D, Marketing, Business, Operations, and external partners. 

Key Responsibilities
Health, Safety, Environment & Quality (HSEQ)
• Promote and sustain a strong safety culture within the Mozzate R&D laboratories.
• Ensure compliance with HSE rules, ISO standards, and laboratory best practices.
• Drive continuous improvement in lab safety, processes, equipment, and waste management.
• Lead safety discussions, risk assessments, and corrective actions within the team.
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R&D Strategy & Portfolio Management
• Co-develop and maintain the European flexible lamination technology roadmap in alignment with Global R&D and Marketing.
• Coordinate and prioritize the European R&D project portfolio in line with business objectives and global strategy.
• Apply stage-gate and portfolio management tools across innovation, renovation, and cost-optimization projects.
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Technical Leadership & Expertise
• Act as technical expert and reference for flexible lamination adhesives across Europe.
• Provide expertise in polyurethane, polyester, acrylic, and related adhesive technologies.
• Guide development of solutions addressing sustainability, food-contact regulations, recyclability, and performance differentiation.
• Monitor technology trends, competitive developments, and patent activity relevant to flexible lamination.
• Contribute to global IP strategy and support protection and leverage of Arkema/Bostik intellectual property.
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Team Leadership & Development
• Lead, coach, and develop a team of 3-4 R&D Scientists/Technicians at the Mozzate site.
• Set objectives aligned with business and R&D priorities.
• Foster a culture of trust, accountability, collaboration, and performance.
• Support onboarding, mentoring, and continuous development of team members.
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Customer, Market & Technical Support
• Ensure high-quality technical support to European customers, sales teams, and key accounts.
• Act as technical interface for selected customers, OEMs, and strategic partners.
• Support business development and technical marketing activities in Europe.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Product Line Management, Sales, and Operations to translate customer needs into differentiated solutions.
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Communication & Reporting
• Provide regular reporting on Europe R&D and technical support activities.
• Present project progress, technology strategies, and business impact to senior management.
• Represent Europe R&D in global project teams, committees, and innovation forums.
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Required Profile

Qualifications & Experience
Education
• MSc or PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
Experience
• 8–12+ years of experience in R&D within a chemistry-based or materials company.
• Proven experience in product development and management of complex R&D portfolios.
• Strong technical experience in adhesives, flexible lamination, or related converting technologies.
• Initial experience in leading and managing R&D teams within flexible packaging, adhesives, or converting environments is a strong advantage.
• Experience working in a multinational and matrix organization preferred.
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Key Skills & Competencies
Technical & Professional
• Strong knowledge of adhesive chemistry and flexible lamination processes.
• Understanding food packaging regulations, chemical risk management, and sustainability challenges.
• Statistical analysis and experimental design capability.
• IP awareness and competitive intelligence mindset.
Leadership & Behavioral
• Strong people leadership with a collaborative, results-driven approach.
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, international environment.
• Structured problem-solving skills and comfort dealing with ambiguity.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Languages
• Fluent English (spoken and written).
• Italian is a strong plus.

The European Flexible Lamination R&D Manager drives innovation, develops talent, supports customer success, and ensures the Mozzate site remains a key pillar of global R&D excellence.