Senior R&D Manager

H.B. Fuller•Saint Paul, MN

About The Position

The Senior R&D Manager leads a team of senior professionals and is a recognized internal and external expert in an industry or technology. The role sets and communicates strategy, translates it into team goals, and optimizes team performance through empowerment, coaching, and development. It drives innovation and measurable business results while managing resources and multiple projects, often on tight timelines and with diverse stakeholder expectations. The manager provides technical leadership for global collaboration teams and R&D initiatives, leads cross-functional projects, works with customers and OEMs, and coordinates professional staff and potentially first-line supervisors.

Requirements

At least 10 years of related experience; stated alternatives are B.S. plus 10 years, M.S. plus 8 years, or Ph.D. plus 6 years.
Strong technical background and knowledge of research and development for industry.
Demonstrated experience leading and managing cross-functional teams and fostering a collaborative, innovative work environment.
Track record of successful product development and innovation from concept through commercialization.
Strong project management skills, including planning, executing, and monitoring multiple projects simultaneously.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities and a data-driven approach to decision-making.
Strong communication and presentation skills, including the ability to explain complex technical concepts to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Knowledge of relevant regulations, standards, and intellectual property considerations in R&D activities.
Ability to adapt to a fast-paced, dynamic work environment, with initiative and drive for results.

Nice To Haves

Expertise in polyurethane, epoxy, and acrylic structural adhesives.

Responsibilities

Lead, manage, and develop a team of senior professionals, including managing beyond the immediate sphere of influence.
Optimize team performance through empowerment, coaching, and development.
Promote possibility thinking within and beyond the team and organization.
Understand and communicate strategy, translating it into actionable goals and objectives that deliver impactful results.
Manage and prioritize multiple projects on tight timelines while balancing stakeholder expectations and business impact.
Manage resources prudently and creatively without compromising quality or results.
Lead large global or cross-functional project teams and collaborate across disciplines, functions, and regions.
Provide technical leadership on Global Collaboration Teams in support of R&D initiatives and working groups.
Work outside the organization and with customers or OEMs to meet objectives.
Work safely and efficiently.
Coordinate professional staff in an assigned work area and/or manage first-line supervisors.