Material Development Manager in Gaydon, Warwickshire

Material Development Manager

Summary, £68-75K
Work type Full Time - Permanent
Location Gaydon, Warwickshire

This Company is built upon the passion, skill and creativity of the people who dedicate their working lives to the most iconic brand in the world. Every intricate stitch beautifully expressed line, and the stirring noise of our engines is a manifestation of the desire and collective spirit to create the most beautiful cars.

Job Purpose:

Lead the materials development team and manage the materials test laboratory. Provide technical guidance and approval of materials selection and associated problem resolution to the Design, Engineering and Quality teams.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

* Day-to-day management of materials development laboratory facility and operations in accordance with ISO9001 quality management system requirements
* Lead and develop the Materials team comprising experienced project engineers, test engineers and apprentices.
* Drive the planning, management and reporting of development and sign-off for all new colours, materials and finishes planned for introduction on vehicle programmes.
* Accountable for on-time completion of all materials DVPs and the issuing of clear and accurate reports and recommendations, ensuring appropriate prioritisation of laboratory capacity and outsourced testing
* Maintain the lab facility and equipment to continuously support the safe, accurate and efficient delivery of DVPs through rapid problem resolution, planned preventative maintenance and targeted capital expenditure.
* Review and approve new and updated materials performance standards and associated test procedures, ensuring alignment to quality, durability and legislative requirements across all planned Interior and Exterior 'A surface' component types and manufacturing processes.
* Propose technical solutions to deliver the aspirations of the Colour Material and Finish (CMF) Design team whilst maintaining performance standards appropriate for luxury automotive application.
* Advise component engineers and cross-functional working groups on material and coating selection considering performance, sustainability, cost, innovation and quality.
* Maintain an awareness of new and emerging technologies and industry best-practice relating to Body Interior and Exterior Materials selection, manufacturing processes and testing methods and equipment.

Qualification & Experience:

* Candidates must have previously led the selection, development and/or validation of materials or finishes for Automotive Body and Trim applications (relevant experience from other engineering sectors may also be considered)
* Prior experience managing laboratory testing operations within an ISO9001 or ISO17025 framework is essential
* Must have proven experience managing and developing staff as well as leading cross-functional teams
* Previous responsibility for specifying, procuring, commissioning and/or maintenance of test equipment or facilities is essential.
* Experience of developing and validating automotive interior and/or exterior trim materials and finishes covering a range of the following technologies is highly desirable:
* Exterior Paints and Lacquers
* Plated brightware (both metallic and polymeric substrates)
* Veneers and hard trim
* Leather (Natural and Synthetic)
* Textile materials
* Plastic and Rubber components
* Prior experience of durability/environmental testing of automotive materials at sample and component-level considering failure mechanisms including wear, scratch/mar, UV weathering, thermal cycling, humidity, corrosion and flammability.
* Experience with selection of appropriate polymers for injection moulded components and substrates for Automotive applications
* Measurement and characterisation of colour and gloss level for assessment of colour harmony and variation
* Degree in a related Engineering or Materials Science discipline
* A recognised professional accreditation in Materials, Engineering, Quality or Management would be beneficial.

Behaviours:

* A highly effective leader, able to create and maintain engagement with a diverse cross-functional team.
* Practical knowledge of laboratory techniques and equipment applicable to automotive trim materials testing
* Familiar with current automotive industry test standards and legislative requirements relating to material selection and validation of body and trim components
* Good working Knowledge of APQP and component Quality Assurance processes
* In-depth technical expertise across a range of the following material types: polymers, leather, textiles, coatings and composites.
* Able to communicate ideas and recommendations clearly and concisely to senior management and cross-functional forums
* Skilled in coaching and developing staff and apprentices
* Ability to work under pressure and prioritise multiple demands on time
* Familiar with technical problem solving techniques (Practical Problem Solving, 8D, or similar)

Disclaimer:

This vacancy is being advertised by either Advanced Resource Managers Limited, Advanced Resource Managers IT Limited or Advanced Resource Managers Engineering Limited ("ARM"). ARM is a specialist talent acquisition and management consultancy. We provide technical contingency recruitment and a portfolio of more complex resource solutions. Our specialist recruitment divisions cover the entire technical arena, including some of the most economically and strategically important industries in the UK and the world today. We will never send your CV without your permission.