Development Manager

An exciting opportunity for a Development Manager within our global-leading Synchrotec business unit.

    Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.00pm

  Competitive

  Training and development opportunities available

At Heathcoat Fabrics we strive to be bold and dynamic in everything we do.  We are ambitious and not afraid to experiment and push boundaries within our industry.  Our highly specialist products are manufactured for use in the Automotive, Healthcare, Defence and Aerospace industries, to name a few, and we rely on the creativity, skill and dedication of our people to contribute to some of the most innovative fabric making projects in the world.  We are committed to ensuring our people have the skills and confidence to excel in their field and provide opportunities for progression at all levels.

About the department and role

Our Synchrotec department is where we process fabrics mainly for the automotive industry. Our Development Team is responsible for all product and process development, optimisation and product compliance.

Development Manager plays a key and active role in managing a wide range of projects, taking them from the development stage through to production and commercialisation. You will be responsible for managing projects including sample analysis, understanding customer requirements and new product design and costings. The ideal candidate will be creating and developing new fabrics solutions for various applications, coordinating and monitoring development trials, optimising product performance and ensuring cost expectations and technical specifications are met. You will be responsible for undertaking improvement activities and change management for optimisation and cost reduction.

A key aspect of the role provides the opportunity to visit customers and suppliers and attend industry exhibitions. You will need to maintain contact with suppliers in regard to sourcing, specifications and quality and provide customers with technical support.

Skills, knowledge and experience required

Essential

• Degree or equivalent level of education, preferably in Textiles or Material Science
• Knowledge of fabric design and an understanding of fibre technology
• Strong organisational and project management skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office Programmes – especially Excel
• Ability to problem solve
• Able to work on own initiative

The following are desirable

• Knowledge of the textile industry, in terms of what can be achieved with fabric design, yarn selection and finishing processes
• Understanding of chemical adhesion systems

The closing date for applications is 25th June