Compound Manager

SUMMARY:
Seeking an experienced R&D Specialist with strong Management experience for a position available as a Compound Manager in Howic. 
The ideal candidate hold a Degree in Science/Chemistry or equivalent (Polymer).will have a strong background in polymer and compounding experience working with organic and inorganic materials, along with extensive knowledge of quality management systems and strong management experience.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum requirements:

• DPRI/BSc. degree in Science/Chemistry or equivalent/Diploma (Polymer).
• Specialist (Research and Development) with experience in Polymer/Compound.
• Solid Management experiene
• Extensive experience in Quality Management systems.
• Familiarity with SHEQ standards and legal requirements in chemical production.
• Proficient in managing Hazardous chemical substances and understanding REACH regulations.
• Ability to interpret chemical TDS's and MSDS's.
• Willing to work some weekends.

• The compounder manager will develop new compounds for various on-site departments.
• Will also be the custodian of the compounds and monitor their performance both at mixing through to the final product.
•  Research and develop available technology with respect to compound formulation to ensure that recipes and ingredients for recipes are developed, changed/adapted and/or approved in a time and cost-efficient way according to the internal or external customer requirements based on project specifications.
• Ensure that all laboratory equipment and infrastructure needed for testing are operated safely and carefully by laboratory personnel, and adequate and cost-efficient maintenance & calibration are planned and performed together with Engineering.
• Ensure that all rubber compounds, including R&D projects and final products, are tested in accordance with the correct methodology, testing equipment and relevant specifications & standards for release in a timely manner to internal & external customers, such as Fire resistance compounds, M &N Grade compounds, etc.
• Analysis of failures from failed rubber production batches and customer returns, including troubleshooting of manufacturing processes and methods
• Creation of Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) documents.
• Completion of process and ISO standard documentation.
• Corrective action/preventive action, quality and lean implementation support.
• Preparation of technical reports for use by engineering, management and sales.
• Coordinate technical activities of the department.
• Monitor and control slow-moving and off-specification stock with support from procurement.
• All this considering that to assure sustainability, the following is necessary:
• Human resources/personnel are working in a safe and healthy working environment and are well-trained to follow the relevant standards.
• Continuous improvement of own processes and process outputs is addressed and managed.
• New compound technology adapts to current market demand.
• Technical transfer of Know-How rubber raw materials, compound formulations, rubber processing technology and final rubber products as per international standards.
• Understand all internal and external regulatory requirements.
• Compound Design & Development:
  • Formulate rubber compounds to meet processing, cost, product, and market performance needs.
  • Produce R&D/experimental prototypes on a laboratory pilot scale.
  • Scale up experimental prototypes to plant-level production.
  • Assist customers with their requirements.
  • Test and approve pilot production for mass production.
  • Gather processing reports from customers and establish mill control laboratory limits.
  • Implement new technologies to align with current economic conditions.
  • Provide daily support to the Technical Production Director and address issues.
• Laboratory Management:
  • Ensure quality control and release of final products.
  • Handle and report non-conforming products and raw materials.
  • Manage internal capacity and prioritise tasks.
  • Control costs within the department.
• Leadership and People Development:
  • Develop a succession plan for anticipated retirements.
  • Train deputies for key roles.
  • Engage with customers regularly.
• Health & Safety:
  • Enforce compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality policies (ISO 14001 and ISO 9001).
• Operational Excellence:
  • Drive continuous cost improvement initiatives.
  • Foster a "Win as a Team" culture within the Management Team and your designated area of responsibility.
  • Ensure that the Technical Production Director is informed of all tasks undertaken.
  • Ensure the Production Manager is aware of shortcomings in the department.