Head of of New Applications Research 100% Description Who we are Omya is a leading global producer of essential minerals and a worldwide distributor of specialty materials. Founded in Switzerland in 1884 and privately owned, we employ 9,000 people across 160 plants in 50 countries. Omya provides added-value products and services from responsibly sourced materials to meet the needs of current and future generations. This position reports directly to the Vice President of Research & Development Services. You will be part of the R&D Management Team, contributing to shaping the strategic direction of our innovation initiatives and serving as a key networker with our technology centers in Europe, the USA, and Asia. The position is being advertised as the current job holder is retiring, providing a unique opportunity to lead and shape this crucial role for the future. Your Mission - Develop and lead New Applications Research to drive innovation and become the number one business partner for strategic Innovation across all market segments. - Create sustainable material concepts and innovative solutions for cross-industry challenges. - Promote entrepreneurial creativity and agile Innovation practices, emphasizing transformation and business thinking to create impactful new business models. Your Key Responsibilities Strategic Innovation Development: - Identify and adapt cross-industry technologies. - Develop market-ready solution concepts, including prototypes. - Implement agile and scalable solutions. Team Leadership and Competency Development: - Lead a team of 14 employees and motivate them through targeted development. - Foster a culture of creativity and collaboration. - Embody an entrepreneurial mindset and actively encourage this mindset in the team. Global Market Strategy: - Analyze technology trends and market developments. - Build strategic partnerships with academia and industry. Transformation: - Implement new working methods and structures. - Collaborate closely with the management team and actively shape the company strategy. Your Profile Academic Background: PhD degree in physics, material sciences, civil engineering, or related fields; MBA or comparable additional qualification is a plus. Experience: 10+ years of leadership experience in industrial research and development, preferably in an international environment. Innovation Methods: Knowledge of design thinking, agile methods, and Lean Startup approaches. Creative mindset: Combined with hands-on experience in research facilities and labs, which sees potentials when they are popping up Personality - A bold leader with vision and decisiveness. - Creativity and curiosity for technological and interdisciplinary innovations. - Global mindset and cultural sensitivity. Soft Skills - Leading People, Drive Change, Interaction, Communication, Delivery. - Structured Approach, Client Orientation, Business Responsibility. - Rational Analysis, Decision Making & Judgement, Creative and Strategic Thinking. - Drive, Resilience, Self-Awareness, Integrity. Languages: Proficient in German and English (C2). Work Environment: Flexible and hybrid work models are supported. What We Offer - A strategically significant key role with ample room for innovation. - A dynamic, international work environment that fosters innovation and diversity. - The opportunity to develop groundbreaking solutions and actively contribute to the company's transformation. Contact Jan Mischler, HR Business Partner, T +41 79 156 74 11 Apply Now