Laboratory Manager R&D
Description
Vesuvius, plc, the world leader in ceramics and refractories related to the molten steel industry, is seeking an R&D Laboratory Manager to join the Flow Control group at our global R&D centre in Ghlin, near Mons, Belgium. Vesuvius is committed to hiring top talent across a broad range of disciplines in order to strengthen its technical base to deliver breakthrough products and solutions in all major product areas. Vesuvius currently employs over 10,000 people and has 70 manufacturing plants in 40 countries throughout the world delivering to its customers on every continent “best in class” products and services. Come and join our dynamic team in an attractive city that is rapidly diversifying culturally and economically.
Position Overview
The Flow Control Research team is looking for an R&D Lab Manager to supervise the lab responsible for production and testing refractory ceramics. Based at the global R&D centre, the R&D Laboratory Manager is responsible for overseeing daily laboratory operations, ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and timeliness of sample production and testing. Responsibilities also include coordinating site maintenance activities, managing capital projects and implementing safety improvements. This role leads a team of 10-15 technicians, maintains compliance with regulatory and quality standards, manages laboratory resources, and drives continuous improvement in laboratory methods and processes. The R&D Lab Manager interacts with R&D engineers managing projects, other R&D teams at the centre, contractors and suppliers. The position offers an opportunity to work in a global organization which values courage, energy, respect and ownership.
Requirements
Laboratory Operations & Leadership
· Manage day-to-day operations of the laboratories to ensure efficient workflow and on-time delivery of results.
- Manage the planning and realization of maintenance of the facility.
- Lead, coach, and develop R&D & maintenance technician workforce, including hiring, developing, performance evaluation, and workload planning
- Support and implement safety initiatives; foster a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement
- Ensures consistent enforcement of rules and policies in the lab
- Plan and execute facility capital projects from scope development through completion; provide control over fixed assets by managing new equipment entry control and asset disposal
- Oversee the training program, ensuring procedural quality and effective communication throughout the process
- Ensure laboratory compliance with applicable regulations and standards
- Ensure proper instrument calibration and qualification
Qualifications
Education
· Master degree in materials science (preferably ceramics engineering), civil engineering, industrial management or geological science; background in materials science is a plus.
· Bachelor degree with significant practical experience in those fields will be considered.
Experience
- At least 10 years of work experience either in academia or industry
- At least 5 years of people management experience within an R&D lab and/or production facility
Skills & Competencies
- Strong written and verbal communication skills both in English and French
- Strong leadership, mentoring, and people management skills
- Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and decision-making abilities
- Knowledge of ceramics production and characterization methods is a plus
- Proficiency with LIMS and data management systems is a plus
Benefits
Working at Vesuvius means joining an international company that truly invests in people. You will have the chance to develop a strong career path and work with a team of experts focused on continuous improvement and cutting-edge technologies.
You can count on an attractive salary package. In addition, we offer meal vouchers, group insurance, and hospitalization insurance, among other benefits.