Innovation Lead

Shape the Future of Innovation with James Cropper

At James Cropper, we don’t just follow trends – we create them. Our Advanced Materials division is at the forefront of pioneering solutions that redefine industries. We’re looking for an Innovation Lead to join our Innovation & Customer Solutions Group and drive the next wave of market-led product and technology development.

As Innovation Lead, you’ll be the visionary guiding our innovation strategy – identifying unmet market needs, prioritising high-impact concepts, and leading projects from ideation through to technology readiness. You’ll inspire and lead a talented team, foster creativity, and build partnerships that accelerate innovation.

• Create and communicate a compelling vision for innovation aligned with the growth strategy.
• Lead and develop a high‑performing team, cultivating a culture of creativity and continuous improvement.
• Drive platform development from concept to TRL/MRL 6 using structured stage‑gate processes.
• Collaborate with Strategic Marketing to leverage market intelligence and technology trends.
• Build strategic partnerships with universities, research institutions, and industry leaders.
• Represent James Cropper externally through conferences, whitepapers, and thought leadership.

• A STEM degree and significant experience in a senior technical role.
• Proven leadership in innovation teams and experience taking products from development to commercialisation.
• Strategic thinker with strong influencing skills and commercial awareness.
• Passion for emerging technologies and a drive to shape the future.

We offer a collaborative environment where your ideas matter, and your ambition can thrive. Based in the beautiful Lake District, you’ll work in a place where innovation meets sustainability.

• Competitive salary and benefits, including a pension scheme with 6% contribution match.
• 25 days’ holiday per year plus bank holidays.
• Free health cash plan for medical expenses.
• Wellbeing support – including a 24/7 employee assistance programme (EAP).

We reserve the right to close the vacancy earlier should we identify a suitable candidate or receive a sufficient volume of applications.