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Research & Development Manager (Ceilings)

Job DescriptionJob Description

Job Type: Salaried

Duration of role: Permanent

Number of Position: 1

Reporting to: Tom Murray

Location: Hybrid, Red Lion, PA

About Us

At Tate we are passionate about everything we do. As an independent brand operating within Kingspan Group, a global plc group of companies, Tate has been recognized worldwide as an industry leader in the development and manufacture of data center infrastructure solutions and commercial office raised access floors, for over 60 years. With revenues of over $420m and growing, Tate plays a pivotal role in offering expertise in cutting edge design engineering in order to craft solutions, by working collaboratively with clients as a trusted partner.

Tate continues to grow and expand, operating multiple manufacturing and commercial sites across the US, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We are excited about our fresh, dynamic, and inclusive team of experts working on new innovations and forward-thinking designs, as we remain a market leading player within our industry. We continue to invest heavily in the best available manufacturing tools and equipment needed to adhere to Tate’s world class standards and in keeping with our Planet Passionate sustainability strategy, our focus is on having minimal climate impact.

We are excited by potentially welcoming you as part of our team as we continue to grow on a worldwide scale.

About the Role

The Manager of Research and Development (R&D) will lead Tate’s Ceilings R&D efforts, overseeing the development of new products, technologies, and processes to drive innovation and growth in ceilings structural suspension systems and ceiling panels. Key responsibilities also include formulating R&D strategy, managing research teams and budgets, collaborating with other departments, staying current with industry trends, and presenting findings to senior management. This middle-level position requires significant experience in a relevant scientific or technical field and a master's degree or PhD is .

What You’ll Do

Lead and build the Ceilings Research and Development team in the Americas region (AMER). This position will also work with counterparts in the EMEA and APAC regions to utilize resources to develop products that are compliant with worldwide codes and ensure that the voice of customer feedback is translated into new products, technologies, and processes.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement R&D strategies and initiatives that align with the company's business objectives and market needs.
  • Team Management & Coaching: Lead and manage a team of researchers and developers, providing guidance and coaching, fostering a culture of innovation, and conducting performance reviews.
  • Project Oversight: Oversee the entire R&D lifecycle, from the planning and execution of research projects to product development and handoff to Product Management and Marketing for commercialization.
  • Financial Management: Manage R&D budgets, allocate resources effectively, and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
  • Cross Functional Collaboration: Coordinate with other departments (product management, marketing, sales, operations, finance and engineering) to translate market insights into actionable R&D plans and bring innovations to market.
  • Market and Technology: Stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitive landscapes to identify new opportunities for growth and innovation.
  • Reporting & Communication: Present research findings, project outcomes, and strategic recommendations to senior management and other stakeholders.
  • Compliance and Quality: Ensure research and development activities adhere to regulatory and quality standards and maintain organizational competitiveness.
  • Additional responsibilities as assigned by manager.

Additional Expectations

  • Remain compliant with the Code of Conduct and Policies which includes the Kingspan Group Compliance Policy.
  • Ensure that all duties related to product compliance are adhered to in accordance with the Product Compliance Policy, Laws, Regulations, and market demands.
  • Responsible for all tasks to achieve compliance goals and demands of the Compliance Management System.
  • Must raise concerns related to the Compliance Management System to their supervisor, manager, or any member of the Leadership Team, or through the confidential whistle blower service.

What You’ll Bring

  • An ambitious, ready-for anything mentality. A positive attitude and coaching approach. A demonstrated 10+ year history of research and development of code-compliant construction products and solutions.
  • Willingness and expectation to move in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong background in Structural or Mechanical Engineering or relevant employment experience.
  • Experience managing at least three direct reports.
  • Dedication to safety and compliance.
  • Willingness to travel internationally 3-4 times per year.
  • Willingness to be on site in the office or plant 2-3 times per week.

Employee Benefits

  • Career Scope and Advancement: As we grow, new positions and career opportunities arise, offering accelerated paths for the right candidates, locally and globally.
  • World of Wellness Philosophy: We empower you to take charge of your health and well-being. You’ll have access to a wide range of medical, dental, and vision benefits, along with personalized guidance from a “Health Advocate.” We also offer other supplemental options, including 401k, legal, , and theft insurance, to ensure your financial wellness.
  • Corporate Social Responsibility: Through Planet Passionate we are determined to reduce our manufacturing carbon (CO2e) emissions to as close to zero as technically possible, together with halving carbon intensity in our primary supply chain. We are very involved in our community, and you will have ample opportunities to support us in creating a better world.
  • Skills Development: Given the dynamic pace of our business and a strong collaborative environment, your new role will be diverse and multifaceted – allowing you to be more versatile and develop a broader skill set.
  • Mentorship and development: At Tate, we don’t believe in hierarchy, we work together as one team for one common goal. You will have access and exposure to our senior leaders and experts for learning in your role, and additionally mentorship for the future.
  • Culture: We have a great team culture, highly collaborative, supportive, and social. Together we innovate, collaborate, take ownership, and strive for excellence.

Tate is an equal-opportunity employer. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

Stay connected with us on LinkedIn for insights into life at Tate. Join us in our mission to make a difference through exceptional solutions.