DGM-R&D/R&D Manager (Factory - Surat)

Job Description:

Job Title: Deputy General Manager (DGM) – Research & Development

Department: R&D
Industry: Construction Chemicals
Reporting To: VP –R&D
Location: Surat

Role Purpose

To lead and drive product innovation, formulation development, and technical excellence in the Construction Chemicals division. The role is responsible for new product development, product optimization, quality improvement, cost reduction initiatives, and ensuring regulatory compliance while aligning R&D strategy with business growth objectives.

 Key Responsibilities

New Product Development (NPD)

• Lead development of new formulations in:
• Tile adhesives & grouts
• Waterproofing systems
• Admixtures (concrete & mortar)
• Repair & rehabilitation products
• Flooring systems (epoxy / PU)
• AAC block jointing mortar / dry mix products
• Conduct lab trials, pilot batches, and plant validation.
• Benchmark products against competitors.
• Ensure product launches within defined timelines.

 Product Improvement & Cost Optimization

• Reformulate products for cost efficiency without compromising quality.
• Identify alternate raw materials and vendors.
• Improve product performance based on market feedback.

 Technical Leadership

• Guide and mentor R&D chemists and lab technicians.
• Build a strong technical knowledge base within the organization.
• Collaborate with QA/QC and Production teams for process standardization.

 Quality & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with IS codes, ASTM, EN standards.
• Maintain documentation, TDS, MSDS, technical datasheets.
• Coordinate product certifications and approvals.

 Cross-Functional Coordination

• Work closely with Sales & Marketing for technical presentations.
• Support customer complaints resolution through root cause analysis.
• Provide on-site technical support for key projects when required.

 Strategic Planning

• Develop short-term and long-term R&D roadmap.
• Monitor industry trends, new technologies, and sustainable solutions.
• Drive innovation in green and sustainable construction chemicals.

 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Successful new product launches per year
• Cost reduction percentage achieved
• Reduction in customer complaints
• Time-to-market for new products
• Improvement in product margins

 Required Qualifications

• M.Sc. / Ph.D. in Chemistry / Polymer Chemistry / Material Science
• 12–18 years of experience in Construction Chemicals / Dry Mix / Admixtures industry
• Minimum 4–5 years in leadership role

 Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong formulation knowledge (cement chemistry, polymers, additives)
• Expertise in dry mix technology and admixture chemistry
• Knowledge of testing methods & industry standards
• Project management skills
• Analytical and problem-solving ability
• Strong leadership and team management capability