R&D Team lead/Manager, Gunsan

Sika is a specialty chemicals company with a globally leading position in the development and production of systems and products for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing, and protection in the building sector and automotive industry. Sika has subsidiaries in 103 countries around the world and, in over 400 factories, produces innovative technologies for customers worldwide. In doing so, it plays a crucial role in enabling the transformation of the construction and vehicle industries toward greater environmental compatibility. With more than 34,000 employees, the company generated sales of CHF 11.7 billion in 2024. Since 1998, Sika AG is present in Korea through its subsidiary Sika Korea Ltd. which employs more than 90 people and has branch offices in Ansung.

- Lead strategic projects for Korea in the field of reactive resins technology (epoxy, Polyurethan etc.) for the segments waterproofing, roofing, injection etc.(alignment with local product portfolio for organic growth).

- Support the assessment of NON- conformity like RMs/products within the technical means (NCM management).

- Identify root cause and provide solutions based on formulation, testing &.or production processes.

- Ensure new product developments are based on newest knowledge (e.g. RM availability) & risks are managed through Sika PCP concept.

- Close collaboration with the countries or local functions (like operation, QC, technical services, Target Market, incl. global R&D) to smoothly roll-out and implement new technologies and products in alignment with your local LET.

- Maintain good technology-, product-, competitor- and market knowledge to ensure competitiveness of Sika products in both performance and cost.

- Support innovation, sustainability and structural saving initiatives. - Foster a good R&D network and ensure employees of R&D are well connected, exchange and share “Best Demonstrated Practices” in form of presentation, reports or during face to face meetings.

- Drive digitalization in R&D and use comprehensive database and modern data science tools to expedite projects. (e.g. Six Sigma, Nuage)

- Increase R&D knowledge and competencies by trainings, regular exchanges with colleagues or possible RM suppliers.

- Ensure state of the art laboratory with focus on safety (5S/housekeeping), equipment & processes (workflow).

- Establish good and regular communication to all relevant stakeholders like LET reporting, improved safety, operational excellence, quality standards and efficiency in regular technical reports.

Key competencies

- Represent R&D Korea, together with your supervisor, for reactive resin.

- Select and request needed resources (people, equipment, tools, money – manage CAPEX)

- Comply with Sikas PCP, safety standards, values & principles and and other relevant guidelines.

- Adhere to set lcoal targets and budgets.

- Protect the R&D know-how, people, environment and all other assets of Sika.

WE NEED YOUR SKILLS

• At least a bachelor's degree in chemistry or chemical engineering
• At least 10 years of experience with chemical raw materials and products
• epoxy resin, polyurethan, etc.
• English skills in writing and speaking with reference for languages (CEFR) min. Intermediate level
• Experience in chemical product manufacturing
• People management experience
• Experience in managing laboratory facilities & equipment.

This position is responsible for the field of R&D (research & development). The activities include business development support, test methods, standards, technologies, and personnel planning. Focus shall be in the seamless production of Sika products with the highest performance capabilities, quality and productivity. The products must be formulated with the alignment of local &/or internal requirements in health & safety and sustainability measures. The role assists Quality Control and production with solving manufacturing problems. The role is reporting into the Head of R&D / QC Korea.

We offer competitive salaries, aligned with local market benchmarks and the specific scope and responsibilities of each role. Compensation is determined based skills relevant to the position, education and/or training.  We are committed to fair and equitable pay practices in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.