VP, Strategic Innovation and R&D

Overview

Teknor Apex is a sought-after global provider of compounding solutions, our unbridled passion for technology combined with our customer‑centric approach allows us to deliver customized solutions worldwide. We take pride in our core values that focus on driving innovation, partnership, sustainability, and integrity. Teknor Apex is a worldwide operation with multiple work sites. In addition to our ten North American locations, we also have three locations in Europe and two in Asia.

We provide an atmosphere that stimulates and develops our global workforce to bring together the best ideas and talent across all value chains.

To drive our global growth ambition, we are looking for an experienced Vice President of Strategic Innovation and R&D. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for driving the company’s innovation agenda, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and leading the development of breakthrough technologies and processes. This role is designed to build and sustain the organization’s innovation capabilities, ensuring alignment with strategic business objectives and leveraging cutting‑edge research and development.

Your strategic vision, leadership skills, and ability to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams will be key to delivering innovative products that meet customer needs and drive business growth.

This position reports to the Chief Innovation Officer and will involve close collaboration with global value chain leaders, business leaders, the technical team, as well as sales and business development teams. As a member of the core leadership team for Innovation, this position offers significant impact and growth potential, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to shaping Teknor’s future success.

• Strategic Leadership:
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive innovation strategy that aligns with the company’s long‑term goals.
  • Lead cross‑functional teams to identify, evaluate, and pursue new business opportunities and technological advancements.
  • Establish and maintain a structured innovation process that encourages creativity and systematic exploration of new ideas.
• Innovation Culture:
  • Foster an organizational culture that supports risk‑taking, experimentation, and continuous learning.
  • Champion the integration of innovation into the company's core values and operations.
  • Mentor and develop high‑potential talent within the organization, promoting a mindset of innovation at all levels.
• R&D Management:
  • Oversee the R&D department, ensuring efficient project management, resource allocation, and alignment with business priorities.
  • Drive the development of new products, services, and technologies from concept to commercialization.
  • Collaborate with external partners, including academic institutions, research organizations, and industry consortia, to enhance R&D capabilities.
• Innovation Capability Building:
  • Implement frameworks and tools for managing innovation portfolios, measuring innovation performance, and capturing value from innovative initiatives.
  • Promote the use of advanced analytics and data‑driven decision‑making in the innovation process.
  • Ensure that the organization stays ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies through continuous market and competitive analysis.
• Corporate Governance and Compliance:
  • Ensure that all innovation and R&D activities comply with relevant regulations, industry standards, and corporate policies.
  • Report regularly to the executive team and board of directors on the progress and impact of innovation initiatives.
  • Manage the innovation budget, ensuring effective use of resources and maximizing return on investment.

• Advanced degree in Engineering, Science, Business, or a related field; MBA or PhD preferred.
• Proven track record of leadership in innovation and R&D roles, with at least 10 years of experience in a similar capacity.
• Deep understanding of innovation management principles.
• Strong strategic thinking, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and influencing skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment and manage multiple priorities.