COMPANY BRIEF
Manpower&aposs client, a prestigious global leader in furniture manufacturing, is seeking a Manager, Furniture Materials Research & Development to work onsite at their factory in Vietnam.
RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES & AUTHORITIES:
- Lead the analysis and development of new materials, colors, coatings, and painting techniques for furniture.
- Explore and propose sustainable alternatives to traditional materials.
- Manage the R&D team in developing new coating systems and painting techniques to improve durability and appearance of furniture.
- Investigate and identify sustainable alternatives to traditional wood, including using wood by-products, sustainable materials, and other innovative materials.
- Cooperating with other departments to drive product innovation by optimizing materials and improving manufacturing processes to meet market and sustainability requirements.
- Conduct material testing, ensuring each new product meets performance and quality standards.
- Collaborate with the sourcing team to develop and evaluate new materials sources.
- Assist in building partnerships with vendors, trial production of new materials/processes, supporting creating prototypes for new products (relate to new materials / coatings).
- Review production work instructions to ensure compliance.
- Involve in overseeing quality control measures for new materials and finished products.
- Promote sustainable practices by identifying eco-friendly materials and methods to extend product lifespan.
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATION
- Bachelors degree or higher in Materials Science, Material Engineering, or a related field.
- At least 10 years of relevant experience in MATERIAL research and development in furniture manufacturing or related materials industries.
- At least 5 years in a managerial or leadership role.
- Proficiency in English is a must.
- Familiar with working environment with certification including ISO 9001, ISO 14000 , ISO 45000, etc.
- Proven track record in leading material development and product innovation for furniture.
- Familiarity with soft tests, chemical testing requirement, testing methods for both EU and US markets.
- Familiarity with environmental standards and regulations related to materials and products.
- Expertise in materials like wood, aluminum, plastic, steel, and surface coating techniques.
- Knowledge of alternative materials, including wood-based composites and sustainable solutions.
- Strong proficiency in product testing and material evaluation.
- Other soft skills like Presentation Skills, Communication Skills, Persuasion Skills, Problem solving skills, making decision skills.
- Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Highly responsible, diligent, and detail oriented.
- High integrity and commitment to delivering high-quality results.
