Position Summary:
The Director of Formulation Development has a pivotal role in shaping the future formulation strategy of Gowan. You will be responsible for developing a roadmap for proprietary technologies and executing this roadmap in line with the company strategy. Key focus will be driving innovation, quality and efficiency in our formulations, ensuring that our products meet all quality and regulatory standards as well as customer expectations.
The role will oversee all formulation development facilities across multiple sites and countries, associated resources, on-going process improvement, relevant third-party discussions and subsequent formulation project engagement and management. In addition, you will support intellectual property protection.
Job Status:
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Full-Time / Gowan Netherlands (Wageningen)
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Salaried
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Exempt
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Reports to: Head of R&D
Role Responsibilities:
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Define and implement the strategic vision and direction for formulation development, align R&D activities with business goals and drive continuous improvement in formulation processes and technologies.
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Develop the roadmap for proprietary technology, in this, work to deepen and develop new technology platforms as well as implementing an operational plan that delivers the overall company strategy.
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Execute the operational plan by leading the formulation teams across four laboratories, providing guidance, budget oversight, infrastructure needs and recourse planning.
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Lead the design, development and optimization of new formulation developments considering current and innovative technologies. Ensure compliance will meet all regulatory and quality requirements. Guided technology transfer to in-house or third party manufacturers and providing technical support to production
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Oversee the execution of formulation R&D projects, monitoring progress and setting milestones. Communicate project status through reports and presentations.
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Work closely with all relevant stakeholders and the formulation steering committee process, foster cross functional and internal collaboration to enhance efficiency, product performance and innovation.
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Collaborate on the implementation of new processes and the formulation design code architecture, ensure processes are established and followed.
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Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging formulation technologies and scientific advancements, provide technical guidance to all teams and troubleshoot all formulation challenges.
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Continue to establish a high-performing team of formulation scientists, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
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The head of formulations is responsible for third-party formulation relationships, evaluates new innovative opportunities and becomes a key contact for third-party projects.
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Promote awareness and be responsible for exploiting opportunities for intellectual property as well as protecting proprietary IP. Work closely with the global IP manager and act as subject matter recourse for all potential IP and FTO questions.
Education:
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The successful candidate will have a PhD, Masters or Degree in (Organic) Chemistry or a related field
Experience / Skills / Abilities:
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They should possess a strong understanding of formulation technologies in Agriculture (crop protection, seed treatment, post-harvest etc.) and have a strong familiarity with regulatory procedures and quality assurance
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A minimum of 10 years’ experience in formulation development
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People leadership; managing a team of highly skilled, professional people and developing them
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Ability to self-motivate, multi-task and work independently and within a team
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Experience with scaling up to (pilot) production will be a big advantage
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An interest in project management and a drive for process and systems improvement will be a significant advantage
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
Job Expectations / Working Conditions:
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The ideal candidates will be self-motivated, have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, and be able to work both independently and as part of a team. This role will involve significant collaboration with other departments and third parties, so excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential
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The ideal candidate combines deep scientific expertise with an innovative mindset – constantly exploring new technologies and creative approaches to enhance existing formulations and drive future product innovation.
